The Relationship Between G6PD Variations and Malaria In Calabar, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: This study was carried out to ascertain the burden of malaria based on the G6PD status of the participants. A total of 225 inhabitants were recruited for this study.

Materials and Methods: Participants were tested for malaria infection using microscopic and serological techniques.

Results: The prevalence of malaria infection in the study was 27.1%. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique detected G6PD and its variations. The prevalence rate of G6PD deficiency in the entire study population was 15.1%, and the difference between malaria-positive subjects who were G6PD deficient and those with normal G6PD was significant. The study indicated a male sex bias in the prevalence of G6PD deficiency in the population studied.

Conclusion: This study recorded a significant association between G6PD variation, a human genetic factor, and malaria disease.