Malaria Assessment in Third Trimester Pregnant Women in Taraba State, Nigeria

Abstract

Malaria during pregnancy remains an important contributor to maternal and neonatal morbidity in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly during the third trimester. This study assessed malaria prevalence, parasitemia levels, and associated hematological alterations among third-trimester pregnant women in Taraba State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,500 pregnant women attending four health facilities: Federal Medical Centre Jalingo, Specialist Hospital Jalingo, First Referral Hospital Mutum-Biyu, and General Hospital Zing. Blood samples were examined using standard microscopy for malaria diagnosis and parasitemia grading, while hematological parameters were determined using standard laboratory methods. Data were analyzed using chi-square tests and t tests, with statistical significance established at p < .05. The overall malaria prevalence was 7.0% (105/1,500) and varied significantly across study sites (χ² = 9.124, p < .05), ranging from 4.0% at First Referral Hospital Mutum-Biyu to 9.6% at General Hospital Zing. Prevalence did not vary significantly by age, educational status, or occupation (p > .05). Low, moderate, and high parasitemia occurred in 4.5%, 1.7%, and 0.6% of participants, respectively, with significant differences across locations (χ² = 22.393, p < .05). Compared with uninfected participants, women with malaria exhibited higher total white blood cell and differential counts but lower packed cell volume, lymphocyte, and platelet counts (p < .001). These findings demonstrate that malaria among third-trimester pregnant women in Taraba State is associated with substantial hematological alterations. Routine screening and strengthened preventive interventions are therefore essential for reducing malaria-related maternal health risks.