Spatial analysis of malaria incidence at the village level in areas with unstable transmission in Ethiopia
2009

Spatial Analysis of Malaria Incidence in Ethiopia

Sample size: 296825 publication 10 minutes Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Yeshiwondim Asnakew K, Gopal Sucharita, Hailemariam Afework T, Dengela Dereje O, Patel Hrishikesh P

Primary Institution: Boston University

Hypothesis

This study examines the spatial and temporal patterns of malaria transmission at the local level in Ethiopia.

Conclusion

Malaria incidence varies according to gender and age, with significant local clustering of malaria incidence occurring between pairs of villages.

Supporting Evidence

  • Malaria is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Ethiopia.
  • Statistical analysis revealed significant spatio-temporal variations in malaria incidence.
  • Local spatial statistics showed clustering of malaria cases within 5 and 10 km distances.
  • Malaria incidence was higher in males than females across all age groups.
  • Significant local clustering of malaria incidence was detected in specific villages.

Takeaway

This study looked at how malaria spreads in different villages in Ethiopia and found that boys and men get malaria more than girls and women.

Methodology

The study analyzed individual-level morbidity data from 543 villages using Poisson regression and local spatial statistics.

Limitations

The study's surveillance data may underestimate the actual malaria incidence rate, especially in remote locations.

Participant Demographics

The median age of study subjects was 19 years, with a range from less than 1 to 100 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

<0.0001

Confidence Interval

95% CI [1.06, 1.07]

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1476-072X-8-5

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication