Determinants of Knowledge of Malaria Prevention Among Women of Reproductive Age 15-49 Years in Nigeria
Main Article Content
Keywords
Women of Reproductive age, Determinants, Knowledge of Malaria Prevention Methods
Abstract
Background: Despite ongoing malaria control efforts in Nigeria, malaria prevalence remains high. Knowledge of malaria prevention among women of reproductive age is critical for national elimination strategies. This study examined determinants of knowledge of malaria prevention methods among Nigerian women aged 15–49 years.
Methodology: Data from 14,476 women in the 2021 Nigeria Malaria Indicator Survey (NMIS) were analysed using SPSS version 29. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted toidentify determinants of malaria prevention knowledge. Variables with p ≤ 0.05 were considered statistically significant.
Results: Most women (80.2%) had knowledge of at least one malaria prevention method; 19.8% had none. Knowledge increased with education: primary (AOR=1.27, 95% CI:1.12–1.45), secondary (AOR=1.97, 95% CI:1.71–2.26), and tertiary (AOR=4.42, 95% CI:3.48–5.61). Women exposed to mass media (AOR=2.41, 95% CI:2.22–2.62) and from wealthier households (average AOR=1.25, 95% CI:1.11–1.41; rich AOR=1.90, 95% CI:1.63–2.22) were more likely to have knowledge than those without exposure and from poor households. Women of Islamic (AOR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.63–0.97) and those of traditionalist religion were less likely to have knowledge than Catholics. Knowledge of malaria prevention also varied by age and geopolitical zone but did not differ by urban-rural residence (AOR = 0.98; 95% CI: 0.87-1.09).
Conclusion: Malaria prevention programmes should target education-based, age-specific, wealth-sensitive, and regionally tailored interventions, leveraging mass media and community platforms. The 19.8% of women lacking any knowledge should be given attention to ensure equitable awareness and support national malaria elimination efforts.
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