Comprehensive Assessment of Factors Affecting Malaria Prevalence among Pregnant Women in Nyabubare Health Centre III, Bushenyi District, Uganda: Implications for Public Health Intervention

Abstract

Malaria remains a significant global health burden, particularly among pregnant women, with adverse outcomes such as maternal mortality and low birth weight. This study comprehensively investigates the multifaceted factors influencing malaria prevalence among pregnant women attending Nyabubare Health Centre III in Bushenyi District, Uganda. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through structured interviews and documentary review from a sample of 86 respondents, including 80 pregnant women and 6 health workers. Descriptive analysis revealed poverty, deficiency in malaria control measures, low education levels, environmental factors such as swamps and floods, age, limited access to health facilities, and climatic changes as major determinants of malaria prevalence among pregnant women. Despite a relatively low malaria prevalence, knowledge gaps regarding malaria prevention were identified. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted public health interventions, including subsidies for preventive equipment, sustained information campaigns, and improvements in healthcare services to enhance malaria prevention and control among pregnant women in the region. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and healthcare practitioners to develop effective strategies to mitigate the impact of malaria on maternal and child health in resource-limited settings. Keywords: Prevalence of malaria, pregnant women, and knowledge