What is it about?
This research aimed to determine the rate and causes of malaria and anemia in pregnant women at the Akatsi South District Hospital in Ghana, as well as the impact of different preventative measures. The study involved 200 pregnant women receiving antenatal care and laboratory services, who were selected using a random sampling technique. Information was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and blood samples were taken to assess participants' malaria and hemoglobin status. The data was analyzed using statistical methods, and the results showed that the prevalence of anemia in pregnancy, malaria in pregnancy and the comorbidity of both conditions was high. Pregnant women under the age of 20 were at a higher risk of developing anemia or malaria. The use of preventative measures, such as IPTp-SP and LLIN, was common and had a positive impact on malaria rates. However, not using these measures increased the risk of malaria. The study concluded that more access to preventative measures is needed to reduce the risk of malaria among pregnant women in the Akatsi South District.
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Why is it important?
The goal of the WHO is to eliminate malaria in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and decrease the worldwide malaria burden by 90% by 2030. To achieve this, the WHO advised the increased use of insecticide-treated mosquito nets (ITNs) to cover more people at risk of malaria. Our study found that the use of IPTp-SP and LLINs was highly beneficial among pregnant women who are one of the vulnerable populations at risk of malaria in SSA and had a positive impact on reducing malaria prevalence in Ghana. Therefore, our results suggest that adherence to these methods can play a significant role in accomplishing the WHO's objective of eradicating malaria in sub-Saharan Africa.
Perspectives
Malaria and anemia are significant issues that affect both the livelihoods of individuals and the larger economy, particularly among pregnant women in Ghana. It is our candid view that the findings of this article motivate health agencies, including Ghana's Ministry of Health, to intensify measures aimed at combating malaria in Ghana. The research provides valuable insights that can guide efforts towards addressing the burden of malaria and anemia, and these lessons can be applied to develop more effective public health interventions.
Mr. Precious Kwablah Kwadzokpui
University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho-Ghana
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Prevalence and risk factors of malaria and anaemia and the impact of preventive methods among pregnant women: A case study at the Akatsi South District in Ghana, PLoS ONE, July 2022, PLOS,
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0271211.
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