Factors Influencing Uptake of Malaria Preventive Treatment Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in North-West Nigeria

Background

Malaria in pregnancy remains a major contributor to maternal and neonatal morbidity in Nigeria. Intermittent preventive treatment during pregnancy is a key intervention recommended by the World Health Organization for reducing adverse pregnancy outcomes associated with malaria infection. Despite national efforts to improve coverage, uptake of preventive treatment remains suboptimal in many regions. Factors such as late antenatal booking, stock-outs, inadequate knowledge, healthcare worker practices, and accessibility challenges may influence utilization. Understanding barriers and facilitators of preventive treatment uptake is essential for strengthening maternal health programs and reducing malaria-related complications during pregnancy.

Research Objectives

• Assess the level of uptake of intermittent preventive treatment among pregnant women.
• Evaluate knowledge of malaria prevention during pregnancy.
• Examine healthcare system factors influencing treatment uptake.
• Determine barriers to preventive treatment utilization.
• Identify predictors of optimal uptake of malaria preventive treatment.

Research Questions

• What proportion of pregnant women receive recommended preventive treatment doses?
• What is the level of knowledge regarding malaria prevention in pregnancy?
• Which healthcare system factors influence treatment uptake?
• What barriers affect utilization of preventive treatment?
• What factors predict adequate uptake?

Suggested Methodology

Suggested Sample

Keywords