Investigating Health Implications and Prevalence of Malaria among Adults

Abstract

Malaria remains a significant public health concern in Nigeria, particularly in the Olorunda Local Government Area (LGA) of Osun State. The study aimed to assess health implications and problems of malaria among adults aged 20-50 years in this region. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire administered to 500 respondents selected through multi-stage sampling. The study revealed a high prevalence of malaria, with 48% of respondents reporting a diagnosis. Chi-square tests identified significant associations between malaria incidence and various factors, including gender, education level, occupation, and environmental conditions. Logistic regression analysis showed that being male (odds ratio = 3.074, p = 0.009), having primary education (odds ratio = 2.323, p = 0.023), being unemployed (odds ratio = 3.660, p = 0.004), and living near stagnant water or bushes (odds ratio = 1.906, p = 0.038) significantly increased the odds of malaria. Bed net use was associated with reduced odds (odds ratio = 0.456, p = 0.026). Home spraying showed an unexpected positive association (odds ratio = 1.711, p = 0.039). Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that socio-economic variables explained 42.5% of the variability in malaria incidence. Simultaneously, T-tests demonstrated significantly worse health effects among those who had contracted malaria compared to those who had not (p<0.001). These findings highlight a complex interplay of demographic, socio-economic, and environmental factors in malaria risk. The study recommends strengthening prevention programs, increasing educational efforts, reviewing home spraying practices, and developing integrated strategies to address socio-economic determinants of malaria. These measures are crucial to reduce the burden of malaria in the Olorunda LGA and similar settings.