Prevalence and Socio-demographic Characteristics of Malaria in Pregnancy among Women Attending Antenatal Care in Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda

Abstract

Malaria infection during pregnancy poses significant risks to both maternal and fetal health, particularly in regions with high transmission rates such as sub-Saharan Africa. This study, conducted at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital in Uganda, aimed to comprehensively investigate the prevalence and socio-demographic correlates of malaria infection among pregnant women attending the Antenatal Care (ANC) clinic. Utilizing a robust descriptive cross-sectional design, data were collected from 400 participants through structured questionnaires and subjected to rigorous statistical analysis. The findings revealed a malaria prevalence rate of 7.8% among the study population. Further analysis unveiled compelling associations between malaria infection and various socio-demographic factors. Notably, women aged 24-45 years constituted the majority of malaria-positive cases, highlighting a vulnerable age group. Additionally, lower levels of education, unemployment or self-employment status, and urban residence were significantly associated with higher rates of malaria infection. Primigravida and women in the second trimester emerged as particularly susceptible subgroups, indicating heightened risk during specific stages of pregnancy. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions aimed at reducing malaria burden among pregnant women in the study area. Effective health education programs tailored to address the needs of vulnerable demographics, particularly primigravida and women in the second trimester, are imperative. Furthermore, the sustained distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets remains paramount in combating malaria transmission. These interventions, informed by the socio demographic correlates identified in this study, hold the potential to mitigate the adverse impact of malaria on maternal and fetal health, contributing to improved pregnancy outcomes and overall public health in the region. Keywords: Malaria, pregnancy, antenatal care, prevalence, socio-demographic correlates, Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda.