ABSTRACT

Malaria continues to be a public health issue in Africa, particularly in vulnerable groups such as pregnant mothers. However, there are misconceptions surrounding the prevention of malaria. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practices of mothers regarding the prevention of malaria in pregnancy in the Mile 16 health area of the Buea health district in Cameroon. A community-based and descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, and data on socio-demographic variables, knowledge, and practices related to malaria prevention during pregnancy were collected from 122 respondents. The results showed that all respondents were aware of malaria, with the health facility, community health workers, and personnel from malaria campaigns being the most common sources of information (73.0%). Family members, friends, television, and radio also provided significant information on malaria awareness. About 84.4% of respondents identified high temperature as the most common sign of malaria. However, there was a significant lack of knowledge regarding all aspects of malaria (P<0.001, much lower than 0.05). There was no significant association between knowledge and educational level (P=0.454).

Overall, 93.4% of respondents believed that malaria can be prevented, and 86.9% reported using mosquito nets for prevention. Additionally, 72.1% recognized draining stagnant water as another preventive measure. The prevention of malaria did not show a significant association with educational level (P=0.105), as the majority of respondents, regardless of their educational background, believed that malaria can be prevented.

Interestingly, a considerable number of respondents did not have bed nets, regardless of their educational level (P=0.755).

Keywords: malaria, knowledge, practice, mothers, bed nets, Cameroon.

CHAPTER ONE

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

Introduction

Malaria is a serious parasitic infection caused by the plasmodium parasite, which is transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. It is characterized by high fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). Malaria has been a long-standing public health problem in developing countries, particularly in tropical rainforest zones. It remains a major cause of death worldwide, with a significant impact on people’s health and livelihoods. Globally, there are approximately 216 million cases of malaria each year, leading to around 445,000 deaths, with 91% of deaths occurring in Sub-Saharan Africa. In Cameroon, the national surveillance system registered about 2 million cases and up to 4,000 deaths attributed to malaria annually. Pregnant mothers are at a higher risk of contracting the disease with severe outcomes compared to non-pregnant individuals (CBK Seilinous, 2020).

Malaria is often associated with poverty and has a significant negative impact on economic development. In Africa alone, it is estimated that malaria results in losses of US$12 billion per year due to increased costs, reduced ability to work, and adverse effects on tourism (Greenwood et al., 2005).

Malaria affects individuals of all age groups, from newborns to the elderly, and both men and women are susceptible. Pregnant mothers and lactating women are particularly vulnerable. Despite the availability of medical equipment and skilled personnel, the spread of malaria remains a major issue.

Pregnant mothers with malaria are at risk of severe illness and complications if immediate interventions are not implemented. Even with preventive measures, pregnant women can still contract malaria, leading to symptoms such as fever, headache, joint and muscle aches. While adults who have survived multiple malaria attacks may develop partial immunity, pregnant mothers experience changes in their immune system during pregnancy, making them more susceptible to malaria infection due to the presence of the placenta, which.