Microscopic Malaria Infection and Its Determinants in Gabon
Author Information
Author(s): Jean-Claude Biteghe-Bi-Essone, Roméo Karl Imboumy-Limoukou, Steede-Seinnat Ontoua, Nick Atiga, Nancy Mbani-Mpega, Charlène Kouna Lady, Jean Bernard Lekana-Douki, Lydie Sandrine Oyegue-Liabagui
Primary Institution: Franceville International Medical Research Centre
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of Plasmodium infection and its associated factors among urban and rural populations in Gabon?
Conclusion
The study found a high prevalence of asymptomatic Plasmodium infection in both urban and rural populations in Gabon.
Supporting Evidence
- The overall prevalence of Plasmodium sp. infection was 21.62%.
- 96.84% of infections in urban areas were asymptomatic.
- 93.97% of infections in rural areas were asymptomatic.
- The most infected age group in urban areas was 18–23 years, while in rural areas it was 6–11 years.
- Socioeconomic characteristics did not show a significant association with asymptomatic malaria infection.
Takeaway
This study shows that many people in Gabon have malaria without feeling sick, which makes it hard to control the disease.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study was conducted among residents of urban and rural areas, screening for Plasmodium infection by microscopy and collecting sociodemographic data through questionnaires.
Potential Biases
Self-reported data may introduce bias in the attitudes and practices regarding malaria.
Limitations
The study did not detect submicroscopic infections and was cross-sectional, limiting the evaluation of temporal dynamics.
Participant Demographics
The study included 976 participants, with 404 men and 572 women, and a majority were asymptomatic.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.031
Confidence Interval
[19.15–24.31]
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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