Risk Status of Malaria Based on Sociodemographic, Behavioural and Environmental Risk Factors in Two Communities in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

Abdulrahman Babaatunde Bello* and Adesola Adebolade Hassan

Background: Studies highlighting the influence of sociodemographic, cultural and environmental factors on malaria incidence have been able to elucidate the risk status of malaria. The sociodemographic, cultural and environmental risk variables influencing malaria occurrence was evaluated.

Methods: Blood samples were collected from 360 multistage systematically selected household heads in Epe and Orimedu. Pretested and structured questionnaires were administered to the participants to obtain data related to their sociodemography, mosquito prevention practices and environmental factors of vulnerability to malaria. Potential risk factors for the occurrence of malaria were analyzed using binary logistic regressfion (Odds Rafio: OR). Chfi-Square (X²) was used to analyze the relationship between malaria parasite test outcome and bed net ownership, standard mosquito prevention practices awareness, presence of surrounding stagnant pools and possession of window/door nets.

Results: The odds of having malaria was relatively high among participants aged 60 years and above, OR=1.35, C.I (0.29-6.21), pensioners, OR=3.00, C.I (0.19-47.96), participants without previous malaria episode since the last one year, OR=1.33, C.I (0.86-2.08) and participants who are not aware of malaria, OR=2.11, C.I (0.13-34.08). Low odds of having malaria was observed among participants: who sought treatment in health facilities, OR=0.00, C.I (0.00) and who knew that malaria can be prevented, OR=0.54, C.I (0.20-1.45). Malaria prevalence was high among participants who own bed nets (2(3) =1.81, p>0.05), have windows/door nets (2(3) =2.33, p>0.05) and who do not have surroundings stagnant pools (2(3) =1.17, p>0.05).

Conclusion: Age, educational level, occupation, previous malaria episodes, treatment facility of choice, malaria awareness and knowledge about mosquito prevention practices influence malaria risk status. However, bed net ownership, possession of window/door nets and absence of surrounding puddles do not significantly reduce malaria incidence.