Age Groups and Haemoglobin Genotypes Influence Malaria Occurrence among Patients in Sokoto Specialist Hospital, Sokoto State, Nigeria

Abstract

A study on the occurrence of malaria among patients of different sexes, age groups and haemoglobin genotypes was conducted among 440 patients reported in Sokoto Specialist Hospital during the period of May to December, 2019. Blood samples were collected from each of the subjects with their consent, and then, thick and thin blood films were prepared and stained. Results showed that 304/440 (69.09%) patients were positive for malaria, with no significant difference between males 150/210 (71.43%) and females 154/230 (66.96%). But a positive correlation (P<0.05) in malaria infection was observed among different age groups; age group 0-5 years (76.08%) showed highest prevalence, while age group >45 years (51.85%) had the lowest prevalence. Subjects with haemoglobin genotype AA were found to be significantly more (P<0.05) susceptible to malaria (80.13%) compared to AS (51.16%) and SS (23.81%) genotypes. To conclude, the study revealed a high prevalence of malarial infection in the study area. The results of the study would help for public education and develop strategies to prevent and control malaria in the region.