Geospatial Analysis of Malaria Hotspots and Healthcare Accessibility in High-Burden Local Government Areas of Nigeria

Background

Malaria remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in Nigeria despite extensive control efforts. Identifying geographical patterns of disease burden and healthcare accessibility can support targeted intervention planning and efficient resource allocation. Advances in geographic information systems and spatial epidemiology provide opportunities to map malaria hotspots and assess disparities in healthcare access. However, limited geospatial studies have explored the interaction between malaria burden and healthcare accessibility at the local government level. This study seeks to conduct a geospatial analysis of malaria hotspots and healthcare accessibility in high-burden areas of Nigeria.

Research Objectives

• Map the spatial distribution of malaria cases in selected local government areas.
• Assess healthcare facility accessibility within malaria-endemic communities.
• Identify geographical malaria hotspots.
• Examine relationships between accessibility and malaria burden.
• Provide evidence for targeted malaria control interventions.

Research Questions

• What is the spatial distribution of malaria cases in the study areas?
• How accessible are healthcare facilities to affected populations?
• Where are the major malaria hotspots located?
• What relationship exists between healthcare accessibility and malaria burden?
• How can findings inform malaria control strategies?

Suggested Methodology

Suggested Sample

Keywords