Factors associated with the use of insecticide treated net to fight against malaria in Democratic Republic of the Congo

Abstract

Factors Associated with The Use of Insecticide Treated Net to Fight Against Malaria in Democratic Republic of The Congo Background: Malaria remains a global health challenge, with approximately 247 million cases reported in 2021, predominantly in the World Health Organization’s (WHO) African region. ITNs have played a crucial role in vector control, contributing significantly to the reduction in malaria morbidity but challenges such as ITN misuse persist. The DRC faces fluctuations in malaria cases and deaths, underscoring the need for ongoing efforts to enhance control interventions. This study addresses a critical gap in understanding factors associated with ITN use in the DRC, where nationwide studies are limited. Methods: A quantitative-based cross-sectional design using secondary data collected from the MICS-PALU, DRC 2017-2018, involving 21,724 people. Descriptive analysis and logistic regression were utilized to explore socio-demographics and ITN characteristics related to ITN use across the 26 provinces of the DRC. Results: The findings indicate a substantial ITN utilization rate (84.9%), Obtaining the net from antenatal care was associated with a lower likelihood of utilization compared to distribution campaigns or vaccination (OR=0.588, 95% CI [0.363-0.463], p<0.001). The odds of using a newer ITN were higher compared to older nets aged between 12 and 24 months (OR=0.724, 95% CI [0.842-0.769], p<0.001). Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) were more likely to be used than other types of ITNs (OR=1.403, 95% CI [0.483-0.615], p<0.001). Furthermore, age, region of origin, marital status, household language, TV watching frequency, reading newspapers habits, and ethnic group significantly influenced ITN usage with p-value <0.05. Conclusion: This study provides insights into diverse factors shaping ITN utilization in the DRC, emphasizing the importance of tailored interventions addressing socio-demographic dynamics, and ITNs characteristics for effective malaria control.