Malaria Treatment in South-Eastern Nigeria
Author Information
Author(s): Mangham Lindsay J, Cundill Bonnie, Ezeoke Ogochukwu, Nwala Emmanuel, Uzochukwu Benjamin SC, Wiseman Virginia, Onwujekwe Obinna
Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Hypothesis
What influences the treatment received for uncomplicated malaria at public health facilities and medicine retailers in south-eastern Nigeria?
Conclusion
Few febrile patients attending public health facilities, pharmacies, and patent medicine dealers received an ACT, and the use of artemisinin-monotherapy and less effective anti-malarials is concerning.
Supporting Evidence
- 79% of febrile patients received an anti-malarial.
- Only 23% received an ACT.
- 38% of patients received sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP).
- 66% of ACT dispensed was in the correct dose.
Takeaway
In Nigeria, many people with fever don't get the right malaria medicine, which is important for their health.
Methodology
A cross-sectional cluster survey of 2,039 respondents exiting public health centres, pharmacies, and patent medicine dealers.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported data from patients and caregivers.
Limitations
The study may not fully capture the quality of care provided at all health facilities.
Participant Demographics
57% of patients treated at public health facilities were children; 80% of cases at pharmacies and PMDs were adults.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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