Poverty and Socioeconomic Determinants of Malaria among Pregnant Women Attending Selected Health Facilities in Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Malaria remains an important cause of maternal and adverse pregnancy outcomes in Nigeria, with pregnant women particularly vulnerable to infection because of physiological and immunological changes during pregnancy. Socioeconomic deprivation may further increase this vulnerability by limiting access to preventive measures, adequate housing, nutritious food and timely healthcare. Aim: This study assessed the prevalence of malaria and examined the relationship between poverty and selected socioeconomic factors among pregnant women attending selected health facilities in Benue State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 pregnant women attending antenatal services in selected health facilities across Benue State between September 2025 and April 2026. Participants were selected using a multistage sampling approach. Data on demographic and socioeconomic characteristics were collected using a structured questionnaire, while malaria infection was assessed using rapid diagnostic testing and microscopy. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and appropriate inferential tests, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results: Of the 400 pregnant women screened, 204 (51.0%) were positive for malaria parasites, while 196 (49.0%) were negative. Malaria positivity was highest among women aged 31–40 years, with 69 (17.25%) positive cases, followed by those aged 21–30 years with 66 (16.5%). Married women accounted for 189 (47.25%) of malaria-positive participants. Business was the most common occupation, and women engaged in business activities recorded a high number of positive cases. Low-income participants, particularly those reporting a monthly income of ₦5,000, accounted for 137 (34.25%) malaria-positive cases. Women who reported difficulty affording mosquito nets or repellents, poor housing conditions, restricted access to healthcare because of poverty and delayed treatment because of lack of money also recorded substantial malaria positivity. Conclusion: The study found a high malaria prevalence among pregnant women attending selected health facilities in Benue State. The findings indicate that economic deprivation and related social conditions may increase vulnerability to malaria by restricting access to preventive measures, adequate housing and timely treatment. Malaria control programmes should therefore incorporate socioeconomic interventions alongside conventional biomedical measures.