Identifying Socio-Economic factors Associated with Malaria Infection in Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria

Malaria has long been identified as a major cause of morbidity and mortality, in Nigeria. Data explaining the potential effect of socioeconomic variables on malaria risk, are scantly available in many places. This study was conducted to assess the effect of socioeconomic factors on the occurrence of malaria among study population in Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria. Structured questionnaires were administered to gather relevant baseline information about the study population. Blood samples were collected and tested for malaria using rapid diagnostic test kit (RTD). Persons who cannot read or write had more malaria infections to a significant level than those who were literate (Cannot read or write: 28.0%, vs Can read and write: 18.0%; P = 0.042). There were more cases recorded among farmers (29.5%), than civil servants (16.8%), business and unemployed persons (20.6% each). However, no significant disparity was observed in the distribution among various occupations (P = 0.244). More cases of malaria (24.7%) were encountered among low income earners per month (<N5, 000) than those who earned more per month (>N5, 000), with no significant variation (P = 0.210) in malaria burdens. Illiteracy among study participants has been identified as an important predictor of high malaria burdens in Birnin Kebbi. Public policy measures that can reduce inequalities in health coverage, and promote educational and economic opportunities of the poor may result in the reduction of the burden of malaria in the study area.