Socioeconomic and Environmental Risk Factors for Malaria in Young Children: A Review

Katu Amina H.

School of Natural and Applied Sciences Kampala International Uganda

ABSTRACT

Malaria remained a significant public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, disproportionately affecting children under five years of age. Understanding the socioeconomic and environmental risk factors associated with malaria in this vulnerable population was crucial for developing targeted interventions to reduce transmission and improve health outcomes. This review examined the complex interplay between socioeconomic status, housing conditions, environmental factors, and malaria risk among young children. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to synthesize current research findings on the topic. Key socioeconomic determinants included household income, maternal education, and access to preventive measures. Children from low-income families were at higher risk due to limited resources for malaria prevention and treatment, as well as poorer living conditions that facilitate mosquito breeding. Environmental factors such as proximity to stagnant water bodies, inadequate sanitation, and climate variability further exacerbated malaria transmission. The review highlighted the need for multifaceted approaches that address both biological and social determinants of health to effectively reduce the burden of malaria among children under five in sub-Saharan Africa.

Keywords: Malaria, Socioeconomic factors, Environmental factors, young children, Sub-Saharan Africa

CITE AS: Katu Amina H. (2024). Socioeconomic and Environmental Risk Factors for Malaria in Young Children: A Review. INOSR Experimental Sciences 13(2):44-48. https://doi.org/10.59298/INOSRES/2024/1324448.000