CORRELATION OF MALARIAL MICROSCOPIC FINDINGS WITH SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL RISK INDICATORS IN SABZAZAR, LAHORE

Abstract

Background: Malaria remains an important public health concern in many developing countries, including Pakistan. Environmental conditions, population density, and socioeconomic factors can influence the spread of the disease, particularly in urban communities. Microscopic examination of blood smears remains a reliable method for detecting malaria parasites and identifying species. Understanding the relationship between malaria findings and associated risk factors can help in improving prevention and control strategies.

Objective: To evaluate the correlation between malarial microscopic findings and selected sociodemographic and environmental risk indicators among residents of Sabzazar, Lahore.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted over a period of four months in Sabzazar, Lahore. A total of 125 participants were included in the study. Sociodemographic information and environmental risk factors, including presence of stagnant water near the house, outdoor sleeping habits, and use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), were collected through structured questionnaires and direct field observations. Axillary temperature was measured to assess fever. Blood samples were collected in EDTA vials, and both thick and thin blood smears were prepared. The slides were stained with Giemsa stain and examined under a microscope to detect and identify Plasmodium species. The collected data was entered and analyzed using SPSS software 20. Descriptive statistics and appropriate statistical tests were applied to determine associations between malaria positivity and potential risk factors.

Results: Microscopic examination showed that 19.2% of participants were positive for malaria. Plasmodium falciparum was the most detected species, while Plasmodium vivax was found in fewer cases. Sociodemographic factors such as age and gender did not show a strong association with malaria infection. However, environmental factors like stagnant water near houses, outdoor sleeping, and irregular use of mosquito nets were more common among infected individuals. In addition, malaria-positive participants had slightly lower hemoglobin levels compared to those without infection.

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that environmental and behavioral factors significantly influence malaria transmission in Sabzazar, Lahore. Interventions such as improving environmental sanitation, eliminating potential mosquito breeding sites, encouraging the consistent use of insecticide-treated nets, and promoting protective behaviors can effectively reduce malaria prevalence in the community.