Prevalence and Determinants of Malaria at the Regional Hospital of Garoua in the North Region of Cameroon: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background: Malaria remains a leading public health problem in Cameroon, with the northern Sahelian region experiencing intense seasonal transmission. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and identify the determinants of malaria infection and its severity at Regional Hospital of Garoua (RHG). Methods: A hospital-based retrospective analysis was conducted between January 1, 2021, and December 31, 2023. Records of 3,506 patients with suspected malaria were reviewed. Data from 663 patients with confirmed malaria and complete files were collected and analyzed to determine malaria severity. Results: The prevalence of confirmed malaria was 30.6%. Among the analytical sample of confirmed cases, the population was predominantly male (77.4%) and young children (55.4%). Relevant determinants for malaria infection among suspected cases included age 0-6 years (aOR=3.42), rural residence (aOR=2.25), marshy area residence (aOR=2.18), and non-use of Insecticide Treated Nets (aOR=1.92). Among confirmed cases, 24.8% were severe. Determinants of severe malaria included convulsions (aOR=28.45), delayed presentation (>48h) (aOR=3.76), absence of prior consultation at another health facility (aOR=3.25), and lower paternal education level (aOR=2.85 for no formal education). Conclusion: This study confirms the high malaria burden in northern Cameroon, driven by pediatric age, environmental and seasonal exposure, and healthcare access barriers. Progression to severe disease is strongly associated with specific clinical signs, paternal education level, and care-seeking behavior.