Prevalence and associated factors of malaria among pregnant women in Maraki Health Center, North West Gondar, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND

OBJECTIVES

Malaria during pregnancy remains a significant public health concern, contributing to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of malaria and its associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) at Maraki Health Center, Northwest Ethiopia, 2025.

METHODS

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 271 pregnant women using structured interviews and laboratory testing (RDT and microscopy) for malaria diagnosis. Socio-demographic, clinical, behavioral, and environmental data were collected. Binary and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with malaria infection.

RESULTS

The prevalence of malaria among the participants was 13.4%. Factors independently associated with malaria infection included not using insecticide-treated nets (ITN), (AOR=3.2; 95% CI: 1.4-7.5), not receiving Intermittent Preventive Treatment in Pregnancy with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP), (AOR=2.8; 95% CI: 1.1-6.9), attending fewer than four ANC visits (AOR=4.6; 95% CI: 1.9-11.2), living near stagnant water (AO =2.5; 95% CI: 1.1-5.8), and attending antenatal care during the rainy season (AOR=1.9; 95% CI: 1.0-3.7).

INTERPRETATION

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of malaria among pregnant women in the study area was considerable. Behavioral and environmental factors significantly contributed to malaria risk. Strengthening Insecticide-Treated Net (ITN) distribution, ensuring Intermittent Preventive Treatment in Pregnancy with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP uptake), promoting regular ANC attendance, improving environmental sanitation, and increasing malaria prevention education, particularly during the rainy season, are recommended to reduce the burden of malaria in pregnancy.