Prevalence and Determinants of Malaria among Older Adults in India: An Analysis of Socio-demographic and Household Variables using LASI, Wave-1, 2017-18
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31305/rrjss.2026.v06.n01.005Keywords:
LASI, Determinants, Socio-demographic, Rural and urban, malaria, Older AdultsAbstract
Background and objectives: Malaria is a vector-borne disease caused by Plasmodium parasites and transmitted by infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Despite control efforts, it remains a major public health concern, especially among older adults. This study examines the prevalence and socio-demographic and household determinants of malaria among older adults in India using LASI Wave-1 (2017–18). Methods: This study used data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) Wave-1 (2017–18), including 72,270 adults aged 45 years and above. Simple and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association of socio-demographic and household factors with malaria Results: Malaria prevalence was higher in rural (9.2%) than urban areas (3.7%). Alcohol consumption was associated with higher odds of malaria in urban areas (AOR: 1.13; 95% CI: 0.61–2.06). In rural areas, individuals in the richest wealth quintile had higher odds of malaria (AOR: 1.33). Households with more than five members showed increased malaria risk in both rural (AOR: 1.26; 95% CI: 1.15–1.39) and urban areas (AOR: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.19–1.81). Scheduled Tribe (ST) populations had significantly higher odds of malaria in rural (AOR: 1.68; 95% CI: 1.45–1.95) and urban areas (AOR: 2.12; 95% CI: 1.37–3.28). Additionally, kutcha housing, unimproved drinking water and sanitation facilities, and the use of unclean cooking fuel were associated with higher odds of malaria in both settings. Interpretation and conclusions: The study has identified the major Socio-demographic and housing factors associated with malaria. Higher malaria risk was observed among Scheduled Tribes, individuals living in kutcha houses, large households, and residents of high-burden states. Improving housing conditions, sanitation, access to clean water, and rural health infrastructure may help reduce malaria risk in this population.
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