Prevalence and Risk Factors of Asymptomatic Malaria Diagnosed Using Rapid Diagnostic Kits Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic at Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi

Malaria Diagnosis in pregnancy with RDT

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: Malaria in pregnancy is of significant public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa. Pregnant women residing in areas of stable malaria transmission are at a higher risk of experiencing the adverse effects of malaria infection. Unfortunately, most of these infections are asymptomatic, and remain overlooked and untreated, which can be detrimental to both the mother and the foetus.

Objective: To determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with asymptomatic malaria in pregnancy among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in a tertiary hospital in Nigeria.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study included 357 pregnant women who were screened for malaria infection using Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistics regression analysis.

Results: The prevalence of malaria infection was 11.8%. Level of education, employment status, parity, and gestational age of participants were significantly associated with malaria in pregnancy. Additionally, use of Sulphadoxine-Pyrimethamine as chemoprophylaxis, indoor spraying with insecticides, and the use of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets were also associated with the likelihood of malaria in pregnancy. Logistics regression analysis revealed that increased literacy, use of intermittent preventive treatment with Sulphadoxine-Pyrimethamine, and indoor spraying with insecticides were associated with reduced likelihood of malaria in pregnancy.

Conclusion: The study highlights the need for effective malaria prevention and control strategies among pregnant women in Nigeria, including the use of IPTp-SP and indoor spraying with insecticides. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing socioeconomic factors, such as education in malaria prevention programs.