ASSESSMENT OF SERUM ELECTROLYTES AND MACRONUTRIENT LEVELS IN PREGNANT WOMEN WITH MALARIA IN ABA SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, ABIA STATE, NIGERIA

Malaria during pregnancy remains a critical public health issue in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Nigeria. This study aimed to assess the serum electrolyte and macronutrient profiles in pregnant women diagnosed with malaria in Aba South LGA, Abia State. A total of 80 participants were recruited, comprising 50 malaria-positive pregnant women and 30 malarianegative controls. Blood samples were analyzed for sodium (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), calcium (Ca²⁺), bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻), chloride (Cl⁻), total protein, albumin, and glucose. The results revealed statistically significant reductions in serum sodium, potassium, and calcium levels in malariainfected pregnant women compared to controls (p<0.05). Additionally, total protein and albumin were significantly lower in the malaria group, suggesting compromised nutritional status. These findings highlight the need for integrated malaria management and nutritional monitoring in antenatal care settings