Uptake of intermittent preventive therapy in pregnancy for malaria in Zimbabwe 2013-2015 Audit

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the uptake of malaria chemoprophylaxis using Sulfadoxine and Pyrimethamine (SP) in pregnant women attending antenatal care. To compare the uptake of malaria chemoprophylaxis using Intermittent Preventive Therapy in pregnancy with Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine (IPTp –SP) between 2 audit periods. To calculate maternal mortality attributable to malaria.

Design: A descriptive cross sectional survey was conducted using multistage sampling technique in 35 health institutions across the country in 4 provinces (Manicaland, Mashonaland Central, Masvingo, Matebeleland North) and 2 cities ( Harare, Bulawayo)

Subjects: Pregnant women attending antenatal care in IPTp districts from the 1^st of August 2013 to the 31^st of July 2015.

Main Outcome Measures: Number of IPT doses received by women attending ANC in the selected IPT districts. Maternal deaths attributable to Malaria.

Results: Proportion of pregnant mothers getting either 2 doses of IPT or were on cotrimoxazole prophylaxis was 82.7%. Maternal deaths attributable to malaria were 12.6%. Proportion of pregnant mothers getting at least 2 doses of IPTp or were on cotrimoxazole rose from 60.5% to 82.7% and maternal deaths attributable to malaria was 13.2% and 12.6% respectively between the previous and current audit.

Conclusion: IPTp coverage of at least 2 doses has surpassed the set target of 80%. Malaria remains a leading cause of maternal mortality.