Malaria Parasitemia among Patients Seeking Healthcare in Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Malaria remains a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, particularly among economically disadvantaged communities. A cross-sectional study of malaria parasitaemia among patients attending Eco Medical Laboratory and Diagnostic Centre, Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria was conducted between February and June 2026. The objective was to investigate malaria prevalence and density by age, gender, education, and occupation among the study participants. A total of 400 individuals participated in the study. Malaria parasites were diagnosed using Giemsa-stained thick and thin blood films, which were examined under the microscope. Of the 400 (100%) study participants, 288 (72.0%) were positive for Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasites, while 112 (28.0%) were negative. Among the age groups, the 35-39-year age group recorded the highest prevalence, with 72 (25.00%) positive cases. Males recorded the highest number of malaria parasite-positive cases, 159 (55.20%), while females recorded the lowest number, 129 (44.80%). The secondary education group recorded the highest number of malaria parasite-positive cases, 113 (39.24%), and there was a significant association between malaria prevalence and educational group (P<0.05, P=0.002). Among the occupational groups, traders recorded the highest malaria prevalence, 94 (32.64%), while the unemployed group had the lowest, 61 (21.18%). There was also a significant association between malaria prevalence and occupational group (P<0.05, P=0.041). Of the 288 (72.0%) study participants who were positive for malaria parasites, 62 (21.53%) had mild infection, 118 (40.97%) had moderate infection, while 108 (37.50%) had severe infection. To drastically reduce malaria prevalence in Nnewi communities, government intervention through mass chemotherapy and integrated vector control is recommended for the study area.