Prevalence and Association of Plasmodium falciparum Malaria with Anaemia among Outpatients in Selected Health Institutions: A Case Study of Daura, Katsina State, Nigeria

Abstract

Malaria remains one of the most pressing public health challenges in Nigeria. As of the latest reports, Nigeria accounts for approximately 27% of global malaria cases and 32% of global malaria deaths. This study examines the prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum malaria and its association with anemia among 400 outpatients attending selected health institutions in Daura, Katsina State, Nigeria. Using rapid diagnostic tests and microscopy, 70.25% (281/400) tested positive for malaria. Anemia affected 87.9% of malaria-positive cases, with 25.3% classified as severe (PCV <21%). Severe anemia was predominant among children aged 0–10 years (71% of cases), and a strong positive correlation existed between parasitemia and anemia severity (r = 0.4635–0.7910). These associations validate the haemato-nutritional cascade in malaria, where high densities (>5000/μL) drive 51.3–56.7% of moderate/severe anaemia via oxidative stress. Inter-facility variations were significant (p = 0.00061), with the Comprehensive Health Centre showing the highest severe anemia rate (41.4%). These findings highlight the synergistic burden of malaria and anemia, emphasizing the need for integrated interventions in endemic regions. Targeted interventions addressing gender, residence, and nutritional support could significantly mitigate the burden in endemic populations. These findings align with Nigeria's national malaria landscape, where pediatric vulnerability and facility disparities perpetuate cycles of morbidity. Ultimately, P. falciparum malaria and anemia form a demanding holistic public health response to reduce mortality and advance elimination goals in endemic northern Nigeria.