Abstract

S. Chituku, H. V. Gundani and Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu*

ABSTRACT

In 2004, Zimbabwe adopted intermittent preventive treatment with Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) as a core strategy for controlling malaria during pregnancy. Malaria in pregnancy (MIP) is recognized as a major public health issue in several countries, with administration of at least two doses of SP during pregnancy being an effective preventive measure. Previous studies in Zimbabwe have shown IPTp-SP significantly reduces the incidence of malaria in pregnant women. However, achieving its full potential relies heavily on pregnant women being informed about its benefits. This descriptive study was conducted between January and February 2013, involving 80 pregnant women attending antenatal care at two urban clinics, Dangamvura and Sakubva, in Mutare City, Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe. A systematic sampling method was used to select participants as they attended antenatal services. Data on knowledge of IPTp-SP, causes, and prevention of malaria during pregnancy were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires. Over 90% of the women acknowledged that malaria can be prevented, and had heard of IPTp. More than half of the respondents correctly identified SP as the drug used for malaria prevention, although others mentioned alternatives such as chloroquine and artemisinin, with 18% uncertain about the correct drug. Additionally, 98% of the women received information on IPTp from healthcare personnel, and over 66% were familiar with at least three methods of malaria prevention. Regarding the causes of malaria, more than 92% correctly identified mosquito bites as the primary cause, though 8% erroneously believed poor hygiene could cause malaria. While 56% of participants believed that malaria could be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her unborn child, the remainder either disagreed or were unsure. Women at Dangamvura and Sakubva clinics showed good knowledge of IPTp and malaria causes during pregnancy. Healthcare workers should emphasize additional prevention methods like mosquito nets and repellents. Providers should educate on IPTp-SP, stressing correct dosage, timing, and completion of treatment, while promoting other measures like ITNs, IRS, and repellents for better protection. Efforts should focus on correcting misconceptions, making mosquito nets and repellents available, and engaging community leaders and media to raise awareness for malaria prevention among pregnant women and their communities.