Malaria, transmitted by female Anopheles mosquitoes and caused by plasmodium, manifests
in symptoms like fever, chills, vomiting, and anemia, posing heightened risks to pregnant
women and young children. This study investigated malaria prevalence and contributing
factors among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital
from January to June 2019, employing a retrospective cross-sectional approach utilizing
existing records. Throughout the study period, the prevalence of malaria infection remained
consistently low at 20%. Socioeconomic status emerged as a significant factor affecting
malaria treatment, with lower economic standing correlating with higher incidence. While
80% of participants exhibited knowledge about malaria-related complications and preventive
measures such as using insecticide-treated mosquito nets and eliminating stagnant water,
20% lacked this crucial awareness. Notably, a disparity was observed in malaria cases
between well-educated and less educated attendees at the health unit, with fewer instances
among the more educated individuals. Maternal complications primarily centered around
anemia, while occurrences of low birth weight and stillbirth were relatively uncommon,
attributed to prompt diagnosis and treatment. The study highlighted fluctuating malaria
prevalence, indicating the need for extensive awareness campaigns, particularly concerning
intermittent preventive treatment during pregnancy (IPT1 and IPT2). Collaborative efforts
involving the community, government, hospitals, and even spouses are crucial to
disseminate crucial information. Encouraging the consistent use of insecticide-treated
mosquito nets during pregnancy should be emphasized, although this aspect wasn't
specifically addressed in the study.
Keywords: Malaria infection, Maternal mortality, Pregnant women, Antenatal care.