Prevalence of Blood Brotherhood among High School Students in Erzurum and the Effect of Peer-led Education on this Practice.

OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the prevalence of blood brotherhood (BB) in Erzurum, Turkey and to observe the effect of education interventions on this risky cultural behavior. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study was designed as a cross-sectional intervention, based on minor interventions through a peer-led awareness campaign regarding the transfer of blood-borne diseases through BB rites. This study was conducted from February through May 2007 at 29 high schools in Erzurum. RESULTS The study population was 53.8% (n=1,522) males and 46.2% (n=1,307) females. The proportion of the students who have participated in BB rituals was 24.1% (n=558). There was a statistically significant link between BB and a history of having Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection, family history of HBV and male gender (p<0.05). After the structured peer-led education the intention to participate in BB rituals decreased from 30.0% to 20.6% (p<0.001). CONCLUSION The prevention of BB rituals, which can result in the transfer of blood-borne diseases, requires urgent public awareness campaigns led by healthcare professionals.