Prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum malaria and haematological profiling among children in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Malaria is one of the most severe global public health problems worldwide, particularly in Africa, where Nigeria was ranked  among the countries with the highest numbers of malaria cases. This community-based study was designed to investigate the prevalence  and risk factors of malaria and to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) and Haematological profile  regarding malaria among children in Ilorin North-Central Nigeria.

Methods: A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted on  354 participants from three local government areas in Ilorin Kwara Central Senatorial districts of Kwara State. Blood samples were  collected and examined for the presence of Plasmodium species by rapid diagnostic test (RDT), and Giemsa-stained (thin and thick blood  films).  Detail information on demographic, socioeconomic, and environmental data using a pretested questionnaire designed with the  standard knowledge, attitudes and practices were collected. 

Results: A total of 279 (78.8%) participants were found positive for  Plasmodium falciparum. The prevalence differed significantly by age group (p < 0.01), but not by gender or location. Also, studies  underscore distinct age-associated variations in Haematological parameters, with notable differences in haemoglobin concentration, hematocrit levels, and white blood cell counts among the different age groups. Multivariate analysis showed that malaria was associated  significantly with aged, a low household family income, not using insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). Overall, 78.8% of the respondents had  prior knowledge about malaria, and 64.5, 33.0 and 69.2% knew about its transmission, symptoms, and prevention respectively. Findings  also showed that 71.7% of the respondents considered malaria a serious disease. Although 83.3% of the respondents had at least one ITN  in their household, utilization rate of ITNs was 72.3%. Significant associations between the respondents’ knowledge concerning  malaria and their age, gender, education, and household monthly income were reported.

Conclusion: Malaria is still highly prevalent  among rural communities in Ilorin, Kwara State Nigeria. Despite high levels of knowledge and attitudes in the study area, significant gaps  persist in appropriate preventive practices, particularly the use of ITNs. Innovative and Integrated control measures to reduce the  burden of malaria should be identified and implemented in these communities. Community mobilization and health education regarding  the importance of using ITNs to prevent malaria and save lives should be considered.