Free Distribution of Bed Nets Improves Malaria Control in Burkina Faso
Author Information
Author(s): Müller Olaf, De Allegri Manuela, Becher Heiko, Tiendrebogo Justin, Beiersmann Claudia, Ye Maurice, Kouyate Bocar, Sie Ali, Jahn Albrecht
Primary Institution: Department of Tropical Hygiene and Public Health, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
Hypothesis
Does the combination of free insecticide-treated net (ITN) distribution and social marketing increase ITN ownership among pregnant women in rural Burkina Faso?
Conclusion
The study found that free distribution of ITNs to pregnant women significantly improved ITN household ownership in rural Burkina Faso.
Supporting Evidence
- ITN household ownership increased from 16% to 28% over the study period.
- Group A (free distribution) saw a higher increase in ITN ownership compared to Group B (social marketing only).
- Free distribution through antenatal care services significantly contributed to increased ITN ownership.
Takeaway
Giving away bed nets for free to pregnant women helps more families get them, which can protect them from malaria.
Methodology
A cluster-randomized controlled trial was conducted in Kossi Province, Burkina Faso, comparing ITN social marketing with and without free distribution to pregnant women.
Potential Biases
Selection bias due to the method of household selection and differences in ethnicity and religion between groups.
Limitations
Differences in baseline characteristics between groups and potential leakage of ITNs to areas outside the study.
Participant Demographics
The study included households in rural Burkina Faso, primarily subsistence farmers, with a high illiteracy rate and limited access to electricity and water.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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