Does socioeconomic environment pose as a risk factor for malaria in Senegal? A DHS data analysis of malaria trends from 2010 to 2016 in Senegal

Abstract

Introduction: in Senegal, many interventions have been carried out in the fight against malaria. Thus, the prevalence of malaria has clearly declined from 2010 to the present day. The analysis of the evolution of malaria will aid in addressing the determinants of malaria elimination in this country. The purpose of this research is to analyze the evolution of malaria in Senegal from 2010 to 2016. Methods: data from the Senegal Demographic and Health Surveys (for 2010-2011, 2012-2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016) are used in this article. Malaria prevalence had been studied on the basis of RDT positivity. A multivariate logistic analysis with an adjustment over the years was performed to identify the factors associated with the evolution of malaria in Senegal. The adjusted odds ratios were calculated with their 95% confidence intervals. The dependent variable was the result of the malaria rapid diagnostic test. Results: the prevalence of malaria ranges from 3.01% in 2010 to 0.87% in 2016. The age of the child 4 years (aOR=1.82 [1.14-2.89]) and 5 years (aOR=1.98 [1.21-3.25]) were risk factors associated with the evolution of malaria. With an aOR of 0.02 [0-0.18], the richest wealth quintile was a protective factor against malaria. The characteristics of house constructions were also protective factors against malaria. These are houses with improved wall and roof materials, and their aOR are 0.45 [0.24-0.85] and 0.48 [0.25-0.93], respectively. Conclusion: the age of the children, the level of wealth in the household, and the type of dwelling in the house are all factors associated with the evolution of malaria in Senegal. It should be noted that a country's level of development, which influences better living conditions for communities, remains an important prerequisite for the eradication of malaria in the African subregion, and particularly in Senegal.