Effect of Sociodemographic Factors on Uptake of Intermittent Preventive Treatment for Malaria at Antenatal Clinics at Primary Health Centers in Orlu Zone, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy with sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) reduces malaria-related risks, but completion of the recommended dosing schedule remains suboptimal. Aim: This study assessed the influence of sociodemographic factors on IPTp-SP uptake among women attending antenatal clinics at primary health centres in Orlu Zone, Imo State, Nigeria. Methods: A facility-based, cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 400 pregnant women attending 33 primary health centres. Eligible participants were selected purposively and followed across antenatal visits. Data were collected using a semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire and summarised using frequencies, percentages, tables, and charts. Associations were assessed using the chi-square test at a 5% significance level. Results: Of the 400 participants, 280 (70.0%) received at least one dose of IPTp-SP, whereas 120 (30.0%) received none. Overall, 114 (28.50%) received one dose, 99 (24.75%) received two doses, and only 67 (16.75%) received three or more doses. Among recipients, the largest proportions were aged 30–39 years (41.79%), had completed senior secondary education (37.50%), had parity of 2–4 (39.64%), attended antenatal care at least four times (41.07%), had husbands with senior secondary education (38.21%), and belonged to husband wealth-index class 3 (45.00%). Husband’s apathy was the most frequently reported reason for non-uptake (61.67%). Conclusion: Although initiation of IPTp-SP was relatively common, optimal-dose completion was low. Improving regular antenatal attendance, health education, drug availability, directly observed administration, and constructive male-partner engagement may strengthen uptake.