Journal of parasitology research
Prevalence and Type Distribution of Malaria Among Children in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
By Abate A, Alebele S, Sisay M and 2 others.
Abstract
Background
Malaria remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality among children in sub-Saharan Africa. This systematic review and meta-analysis estimated the prevalence and type distribution of malaria among children in Ethiopia and species-specific patterns.
Methods
All appropriate databases and gray literature were searched to find relevant articles. Studies reporting the prevalence of malaria among children were included. The quality of each study was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS). Data were extracted using Microsoft Excel 2016, and analysis was done using STATA 16.0 statistical software. The pooled prevalence and its associated factors of malaria were determined using a random effect model. Heterogeneity between studies was assessed using the Cochrane Q-test statistics and I 2 test. Furthermore, publication bias was checked by the visual inspection of the funnel plot and using Egger's and Begg's statistical tests. Subgroup analyses were conducted by region and parasite species.