Malaria Burden and Socio-environmental Predictors Among Obstetric Fistula Patients in Kano, Nigeria

Background: Malaria remains a major public health problem in Nigeria, where transmission is intense and disproportionately affects socio-economically disadvantaged women. <i>Obstetric</i><i> </i><i>fistula</i> patients are especially vulnerable group due to their marginalized status, poor living conditions, and limited access to preventive health services. This study assessed the burden of malaria and identified socio-environmental factors associated with infection among <i>Obstetric</i><i> </i><i>fistula</i> patients in Kano, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 <i>Obstetric</i><i> </i><i>fistula</i> patients receiving care at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano. Socio-demographic data were collected using structured questionnaires. Malaria diagnosis was performed using Giemsa-stained thick and thin blood smears. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS version 29, with Chi-square tests used to determine associations between malaria infection and socio-environmental variables at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Malaria prevalence was 34.8%, with all infections attributable to <i>Plasmodium</i><i> </i><i>falciparum</i>. Significant associations were observed between malaria infection and rural residence (p = 0.021), unemployment (p = 0.033), and improper refuse disposal practices (p = 0.041). No significant associations were found for water source, age group, or toilet facility. Conclusion: Malaria remains a substantial comorbidity among <i>Obstetric</i><i> </i><i>fistula</i> patients in Kano, driven by socio-economic disadvantage and environmental exposure. Therefore, integrating routine malaria screening, targeted preventive strategies, and improved environmental sanitation into fistula care programs is essential to mitigating the burden of malaria in this vulnerable population.