Abstract
Introduction
Malaria parasites caused by Plasmodium falciparum (PF) remain significant public health challenges in tropical regions and are responsible for the majority of malaria deaths worldwide. It poses a severe health threat in tropical regions, including Cambodia, especially forested rural environments, for instance, Phnom Kravanh zone in Pursat Province. This study aimed to describe the epidemiology and identify factors contributing to the persistence of malaria infection with PF within the Phnom Kravanh Operational District (OD).
Methods
We used data from the Malaria Information System (MIS) of the National Centre for Parasitology, Entomology, and Malaria Control (CNM). In total, 25,709 suspected malaria patients were tested from January to December 2022 at the Phnom Kravanh OD of Pursat Province. The cases were collected monthly by staff at health facilities, and village malaria workers (VMWs) used tablets and smartphones in real time. Data analysis was carried out using Stata version 17. Frequencies and percentages were used to describe the categorical variables, while means with standard deviations were calculated for continuous variables. Then, bivariate analysis using the chi-square test was performed to assess the associations between contributing factors and the increased risk of PF infection.
Results
The mean age of the patients with suspected malaria was 32.1 years (SD = 16.0). Most (71.6%) tests were performed in the age group of 15–49 years, while 15.8% were in the age group of 50 years or older. Most tests were for males with suspected malaria (66.80%). Health facilities tested for a total of 6,699 (26.1%), and VMWs tested for 19,010 (73.9%). The prevalence of PF was 0.39% (95% CI: 0.31–0.46), equal to 99 cases, particularly among men (0.56%), in those aged 15–49 years old (86 cases), and among those with a history of travel (98 cases). Malaria infections occurred most often between April and September. Health facilities detected the most cases of PF infection (0.87%).
Conclusion
The findings indicate a greater prevalence of PF in males and individuals within the 15–49 age group with a history of travel. This study highlighted the effects of mobility and socioeconomic activities on malaria transmission dynamics. This study underscores the need for targeted public health interventions addressing the specific conditions facilitating malaria spread in Phnom Kravanh OD. Recommendations should include enhancing vector control, improving diagnostic and treatment capacities at local health centers, especially VMW testing capacity, and increasing community awareness about malaria prevention and symptoms, particularly among younger men with a history of travel.