Assessment of Demographic Factors Associated with Falciparum Malaria among Hospital Patients in Zaria, Kaduna State Nigeria

Abstract

Aim: Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by parasites that belong to the genus Plasmodium. It is responsible for the death of millions of people worldwide. This study was aimed at assessing some demographic factors associated with falciparum malaria among hospital patients in Zaria, Kaduna State Nigeria. Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out involving three hundred consenting participants. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain demographic data from the participants; blood samples were collected from them and screened for Plasmodium falciparum by Rapid Diagnostic Test. Giemsa stained thick and thin blood films were prepared and examined under the microscope to confirm the presence of the parasite.  The data obtained were analyzed and P values ≤0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of malaria in males [22.6%] was slightly higher than females [21.7%]. The age group ≤10 had the highest prevalence followed by age groups 31-40 [31%], 11-20 [23.3%], 21-30 [12.6%] and ≥41 [9.1%] [p=0.002]. Participants who were married had higher prevalence [31.1%] than those who were divorced [0.0%] and single [13.2%] [p=0.000]. Conclusion: The research shows that Plasmodium falciparum is still prevalent in the study area. Age and marital status are important determinants of malaria prevalence as highlighted in this study. Children less than 10 years are at high risk for malaria, preventive measures should therefore target this group.