{"paper_id":"40442ccf-ae7e-4b52-9511-2bb31fa2ebe4","body_text":"Utilization of Malaria Control Interventions and Associated Factors Among Women of Reproductive Age in Lira City, Northern Uganda | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article Utilization of Malaria Control Interventions and Associated Factors Among Women of Reproductive Age in Lira City, Northern Uganda Everline Apio, Harriet Angwech, Bosco Opio, Robert Opoke, Robert Opiro This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-7878214/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Published Journal Publication published 09 Mar, 2026 Read the published version in BMC Public Health → Version 1 posted 12 You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Malaria remains a major public health concern in Uganda, with prevalence in Lira City rising sharply in recent years despite ongoing interventions. Women of reproductive age are particularly vulnerable, yet little is known about their use of available preventive measures. This study assessed knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and utilization of malaria control interventions, and examined factors influencing their uptake. A cross-sectional, mixed-methods study was conducted with 629 randomly selected women of reproductive age in Lira City. Quantitative data were collected using semi structured questionnaires, while qualitative insights were obtained through focus group discussions. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp), and indoor residual spraying (IRS). Chi-square tests were used to examine associations, and multivariate logistic regression was applied to identify predictors of utilization. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically to explore barriers to uptake, and findings were triangulated with quantitative results for validation and deeper interpretation. ITN utilization was high (84.1%), IPTp uptake moderate (68%), and IRS coverage low (32.8%). Almost all participants (96.8%) were knowledgeable about ITNs, mainly gained through health workers, and expressed positive attitudes toward malaria prevention (mean score: 4.34, SD = 0.67). While most (91.9%) perceived IRS as effective, concerns included bad odor and discomfort (51.7%), doubt about safety (21.9%), and effectiveness (17.3%). Age, type of house, challenges faced with nets, marital status, and exposure to health education were significant predictors of utilization. Despite widespread ITN use, IRS uptake remains limited due to persistent concerns and misconceptions. Strengthening targeted health education, addressing community fears, and improving access to interventions are critical for enhancing malaria control in high-transmission settings like Lira City. Utilization malaria controls women of reproductive age Lira city Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Introduction Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites and transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes[ 1 ][ 2 ][ 3 ]. Despite being preventable and treatable, malaria continues to heavily impact health and livelihoods globally, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions [ 1 ][ 4 ]. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable, with infections linked to adverse outcomes such as low birth weight and increased infant mortality [ 5 ]. In 2023, an estimated 36 million pregnancies occurred across 33 moderate to high transmission countries in the WHO African Region, of which 12.4 million (34%) were infected with malaria, contributing to approximately 763,000 cases of low birth weight, a modest decline from 822,000 cases in 2020, yet still reflecting a substantial burden that demands strengthened antenatal malaria prevention and care[ 6 ][ 7 ]. In 2023, approximately 263 million people contracted malaria globally, resulting in 597,000 deaths across 83 countries, marking an increase of 11 million cases from the previous year[ 6 ]. The African Region accounted for 94% of all cases and 95% of deaths, with children under five comprising nearly 80% of fatalities. The three countries with the highest estimated case burdens were Nigeria (26%), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (13%), and Uganda (5%)[ 6 ]. The high burden in Africa is driven by factors such as limited access to healthcare, inadequate preventive resources, and favorable environmental conditions for mosquito breeding [ 8 ]. To mitigate transmission, sub-Saharan Africa has scaled up interventions such as intermittent preventive treatment (IPT), indoor residual spraying (IRS), and insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), particularly targeting pregnant women and children under five years of age[ 9 ][ 10 ]. Uganda ranks third globally in malaria cases and eighth in malaria-related deaths, contributing 5.1% and 2.9% of the global totals, respectively. The country bears the highest malaria burden in East and Southern Africa, with 23% of regional cases[ 11 ]. Although the entire population is at various levels of risk of malaria, children under five years and pregnant women bears the highest risk[ 12 ][ 13 ]. While Uganda has made progress in implementing interventions such as ITNs, IRS, artemisinin-based combination therapies, and IPTp, the burden remains high in certain regions. Northern Uganda, in particular, experiences intense transmission, with incidence rates exceeding 450 cases per 1,000 people [ 14 ]. Uptake of three or more doses of Intermittent Preventive Treatment in pregnancy (IPTp3) is especially low, with only 14.7% of pregnant women receiving the recommended three doses [ 4 ]. The Lango sub-region, which includes Lira city, is classified as a moderate malaria transmission setting, with incidence ranging between 251 and 450 cases per 1,000 people [ 15 ] In Lira, 4.4% of women were recently found to have placental malaria at delivery, with varying degrees of parasitaemia [ 16 ]. Alarmingly, malaria prevalence in the area rose following the last IRS campaign in May 2022, this resurgence reflects broader patterns observed across Northern Uganda[ 17 ] This sharp increase raises concerns about the effectiveness and uptake of malaria control interventions in the area. Despite the availability of proven preventive strategies, utilization remains suboptimal; for example, only 47.05% of pregnant women in East Africa reported using ITNs well below the WHO target of 90%[ 18 ]. In Lira City, the post-IRS surge in prevalence suggests that low coverage and inconsistent use of interventions may be sustaining high transmission. This study examined the use of malaria control interventions among women of reproductive age in Lira City, focusing on knowledge, attitudes, practices, and barriers, to guide strategies for improved coverage and reduced malaria burden. MATERIALS AND METHODS Study Area The study was conducted in Lira City, Northern Uganda (Fig. 1 ), a rapidly developing urban center with a population of about 249,900[ 19 ] The city’s economy is mainly based on agriculture and trade. Administratively, the city is divided into Lira City East (4 wards, 23 parishes, 153 villages) and Lira City West (3 wards, 22 parishes, 83 villages). Lira has a tropical savanna climate with warm temperatures throughout the year and a bimodal rainfall pattern (April–May and August–October), receiving 1,000–1,400 mm annually. The climate is further influenced by atmospheric circulation, topography, and nearby water bodies. Lira City lies on a predominantly flat landscape with undulating plains, intersected by streams flowing into Lake Kyoga. It comprises both urban and peri-urban areas, with uneven population distribution and some densely populated divisions. Located in the Lango Sub-region, Lira city is classified as a moderate malaria transmission area, recording 251–450 cases per 1,000 population, similar to Karamoja, Teso, Bukedi, and Busoga regions [ 20 ]. Studies indicate that malaria remains endemic in Lira city, with variations in transmission influenced by factors such as seasonal rainfall, vector density, and intervention coverage [ 21 ] Study design and sampling The study targeted women of reproductive age (15–49 years) in Lira City, given their heightened vulnerability to malaria, especially during pregnancy, and their influence on family and community health. It employed a cross-sectional descriptive design, using both quantitative and qualitative methods to assess the utilization of malaria control interventions and associated factors. The sample size was determined using the Cochran formula for cross-sectional studies, defined as follows: $$\\:n=\\:\\frac{{Z}^{2}\\times\\:p\\times\\:\\left(1-p\\right)}{{d}^{2}}$$ Where: n is the sample size, Z is the Z-value corresponding to 95% confidence level (Z = 1.96), p is the estimated prevalence of malaria control intervention utilization (an estimate of 50% was used for maximum sample size), d is the desired level of precision 5%, the sample size was adjusted for the design effect for multistage sampling by multiplying by 1.5 and considering a 10% non-response rate: thus, the final sample size was 634 participants. To obtain the required number of participants, the study employed a multistage sampling technique. Six city wards were randomly selected, from which four parishes per ward and at least three villages per parish were chosen. In each village, households were sampled systematically at five-household intervals, starting with a randomly selected household. From each household, one eligible woman of reproductive age was randomly chosen for interview. If there was more than one eligible woman in a household, one was randomly selected to participate. Inclusion and exclusion criteria Women of childbearing age (15–49 years) residing in Lira City, who were pregnant, postpartum, or not pregnant, and who willingly consented to participate, were included in the study. Women aged 15–49 years who did not reside in Lira City, had serious health conditions preventing participation, or were still under the care of their parents were excluded from the study. Data Collection methods Quantitative data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires and qualitative data through focus group discussions (FGDs). The questionnaires for data collection, translated into Luo or English, were uploaded to the Kobo Collect Android app installed on mobile phones and administered by trained research assistants [ 22 ]. They were pretested in Apii village, Ayer Sub County, Kole District, to ensure reliability. To complement the questionnaire findings, three FGDs (one in Lira City West and two in City East) were conducted with 10 women of reproductive age each, drawn from different parishes and villages to ensure broad representation and deeper insights into malaria intervention utilization (ITNs, IPTs, IRS). Data Management and Analysis Before data collection, the questionnaire was piloted in Apii village, Kole district. Restricted questions were used to minimize missing data, and all responses were processed through sorting and tabulation to check for errors. Ethical standards were strictly followed, with anonymization and informed consent ensured. Data were analyzed in STATA v18 at three levels: univariable, bivariable, and multivariate. Descriptive statistics summarized knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and utilization of ITNs, IPTs, and IRS. Chi-square tests identified factors associated with utilization, and variables with p < 0.2 were included in multivariate logistic regression, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Qualitative data from FGDs were coded, categorized into themes, and triangulated with quantitative findings for comprehensive analysis. Results Socio-demographic Characteristics The study achieved a response rate of 99.2%, with 629 participants. Table 1 summarizes their demographic and socio-economic characteristics. Most respondents were aged 21–30 years (42.4%, n = 267) or 31–40 years (36.1%, n = 227). Nearly half (49%, n = 308) reported a monthly household income below 100,000 UGX, and 52.8% ( n = 332) had fewer than five household members. A majority (65.7%, n = 413) had two or fewer children. In terms of education, 45.8% ( n = 288) had secondary education, 29.7% ( n = 187) had only primary education, and 5.7% ( n = 36) had no formal education. Most participants were married (75.2%, n = 473). Self-employment was the most common occupation (49.9%, n = 314), followed by farming (36.7%, n = 231). Most lived in permanent housing (64.9%, n = 408) and resided in urban areas (64.2%, n = 404). The dominant religious affiliations were Protestant (42.4%, n = 267) and Catholic (36.9%, n = 232) Table 1 Socio-demographic Characteristics of Study Participants (N = 629) Variables Number Percent Age in years <=20 59 9.4 21–30 267 42.4 31–40 227 36.1 Above 40 76 12.1 Average household income per month (UGX) <=100000 308 49.0 100001–200000 149 23.7 Above 200000 172 27.3 Household size <5 332 52.8 5+ 297 47.2 Number of children <=2 413 65.7 above2 216 34.3 Education level None 36 5.7 Primary 187 29.7 Secondary 288 45.8 Tertiary 118 18.8 Marital status Divorced 81 12.9 Married 473 75.2 Single 55 8.7 Widowed 20 3.2 Occupation Civil Servant 55 8.7 Farming 231 36.7 Others Specify 16 2.5 Self-Employment 314 49.9 Student 13 2.1 Type of housing Permanent 408 64.9 Semi-permanent 168 26.7 Temporary 53 8.4 Current place of residence Peri urban 225 35.8 Urban 404 64.2 Religious affiliation Catholics 232 36.9 Muslim 19 3.0 SDA 22 3.5 Pentecostals 89 14.1 Protestants 267 42.4 Level of utilization of ITNs, IPTs and IRS Figure 2 presents the utilization of ITNs, IPTs and IRS among women of reproductive age in Lira City. The results indicate high utilization of Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs), with 529 (84.1%) of respondents reporting use, suggesting that ITNs remain the most widely adopted malaria prevention method among the population. In contrast, the uptake of Intermittent Preventive Treatment in pregnancy (IPT) was moderate, with 428 (68.0%) reporting utilization, while Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) was the least used, with only 206 (32.8%) of respondents indicating that their households had received spraying. The overall trend points to a preference for individual or household-controlled prevention methods like ITNs over community-based interventions like IRS. In terms of the level of utilization, a significant proportion 280 (44.52%) of respondents reported using two prevention methods, while 153 (24.32%) had used one method, and 150 (23.85%) had used three methods. Only a small percentage 46 (7.31%) reported never using any of the three malaria prevention measures. Participants Knowledge Towards Utilization of ITNS, IPTS and IRS Table 2 summarizes participants' knowledge and use of malaria prevention methods. The most frequently mentioned methods were indoor residual spraying (IRS) (32.8%, n = 590) and use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) (32.3%, n = 582), followed by intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) (19.3%, n = 347) and clearing stagnant water (14.5%, n = 261). Only 0.3% ( n = 5) reported no knowledge of malaria prevention methods. The majority (90.9%, n = 572) learned about these methods from health workers, while smaller proportions cited the media (5.6%, n = 35) or community sources such as meetings, friends, or family (1.4%, n = 9 each). Most participants (85.2%, n = 536) reported having received education on the importance of IPTp during pregnancy. Regarding treatment-seeking behavior, 88.1% ( n = 554) said they would seek care at a health facility, 11.4% ( n = 72) at a pharmacy, and only 0.5% ( n = 3) considered traditional healers. Overall, the findings indicate substantial awareness of malaria prevention and treatment methods, with IRS and ITNs being the most recognized strategies and health workers serving as the primary source of information. Table 2 Knowledge and Utilization of Malaria Prevention and Treatment Methods Among Women of Reproductive Age in Lira City Variable Number Percent Methods to prevent malaria (Multiple response) IRS 590 32.78 Taking IPT 347 19.28 Clearing stagnant water 261 14.50 Bed nets 582 32.33 Don’t know 5 0.28 Others 15 0.83 Where you first learnt about these methods Community meetings 9 1.4 Friends/Family 9 1.4 Health workers 572 90.9 Media (TV, Radio, Newspaper) 35 5.6 Other 0.6 0.6 Think ITNs help prevent malaria No 20 3.2 Yes 609 96.8 IPTs reduces malaria risk in pregnant women No 29 4.6 Yes 600 95.4 Ever been educated on the importance of IPT during pregnancy No 93 14.8 Yes 536 85.2 What do you do if you suspect that you or someone else has malaria Buy over-the-counter medication 69 11.0 Go to a health facility 547 87.0 Other (specify) 1 0.2 Take traditional medicine 12 1.9 Know where to seek treatment if you or family member gets sick Health facility 554 88.1 Pharmacy 72 11.4 Traditional healer 3 0.5 The qualitative findings revealed varying levels of knowledge and awareness of malaria control interventions among participants, with ITNs emerging as the most commonly recognized preventive method. However, very few have a deep understanding of IPT’s purpose beyond Antenatal care visit (ANC). A significant number of respondents demonstrated a basic understanding of the role ITNs play in malaria prevention, particularly in protecting against mosquito bites. However, some expressed doubts about malaria control citing concerns that they still get sick despite using nets and taking hospital prescribed medications. “Without net we wouldn’t sleep. Our place has a lot of mosquitoes and I use it because I know its benefit.” (R31) “Nets have saved our children from mosquito bites and how I wish they would be distributed frequently.” (R32) “Nets are very good and I used to sleep with a lot of peace before my net was torn, but now mosquitoes still bite me because it has holes.” (R37) “I don’t have any problem sleeping under a net. The only problem is laziness to tie it, especially after washing. You find that I can take three to four days before hanging it again after washing.” (R34) “I don’t use a net because it makes me experience difficulties in breathing.” (R7) Persistent misconceptions coexisted with biomedical knowledge in regards to malaria for instances: “Malaria is also caused by eating mangoes in the morning” (R3); “Malaria is caused by dirty water around homes as it keeps mosquitoes” (R21); “To me, I think sometimes it’s caused by witchcraft. Like for my case, in the last pregnancy, each and every time I would be sick with malaria, but when I gave birth, it stopped and I strongly believe it was my co-wife working on me.” (R39) and “Sometimes malaria appears to be demonic when you have little money, everyone at home may fall sick” (R3). These testimonies indicate that cultural and spiritual beliefs continue to influence perceptions and behaviors. Several respondents voiced concerns regarding the practicality and perceived effectiveness of ITNs, especially when damaged or during the hot season when sleeping under a net becomes uncomfortable. These insights underscore the limitations of ITN use in real-world settings, where behavioral and environmental factors affect compliance, thereby reducing their effectiveness. Notably, the theme also uncovered significant gaps in knowledge and widespread misconceptions surrounding Intermittent Preventive Treatment in pregnancy (IPTp). Despite being a cornerstone of malaria prevention in pregnancy, IPTp was poorly understood by many respondents. This qualitative finding supports the study’s quantitative results, which revealed that knowledge about IPT was significantly associated with greater utilization. While some women were aware that they received Fansidar (Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine) during antenatal visits, they lacked a clear understanding of its purpose as testified by the following narratives. “I thought Fansidar was just for treating malaria, not prevention, but even after taking it, I still got sick when I was pregnant.” (R9) “They always give us red and white drug to help the baby make blood. I’m not sure whether that same drug also controls malaria. Sometimes they give us drugs without telling us the use, but they only tell you this is to help the baby and this is for you and how to take.” (R25) “I don’t know any drug used for malaria control.” (R33) “I guess Fansidar (IPTs) could be in the drug shops, but since I don’t have much knowledge about its role in malaria control, I have never bothered to ask.” (R39) “I don’t know whether there is any drug to prevent malaria apart from the one they give us during ANC.” (R24). In relation to Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS), participants acknowledged its effectiveness in killing mosquitoes and other nuisance insects; however, its acceptance was not uniform. A strong dislike for the odor of the spray, coupled with concerns about potential side effects (including unusual culturally rooted fears such as perceived effects on \"manhood\"), highlights a significant communication gap regarding the safety and benefits of IRS. These knowledge and attitude gaps not only hinder the acceptance of IRS but also illustrate the need for community engagement to clarify the benefits and dispel myths. This is narrative is supported by participants quotation below. “IRS, prevents and kills the mosquitoes but me I don’t like the smell of the drug and last time I only sprayed the Kitchen because LC1 told us if you don’t spray your house you will be arrested”(R8). “If possible the drug for IRS should be without smell because some of us didn’t spray our house because the smell irritates” (R7). The sensory discomfort and distrust towards individuals tasked with spraying often based on personal reputation or suspected motives, creates fear and resistance to public health interventions. This mistrust reduces community compliance, even among those who understand the protective benefits of IRS. “I did not spray my house last time because I didn’t trust the person who was spraying people’s houses. She has a bad heart and I thought she would over spray my house and the drug would kill me. They should always select good people to do the work” (R25). “Some people use it for a wrong purpose for killing human where they pretend to have sprayed their house and yet they alliance with people spraying and keep the drug for another purpose” (R3). Attitude Towards Utilization of ITNS, IPTS and IRS among Women of Reproductive Age in Lira City Table 3 presents the attitudes of women of reproductive age in Lira City towards the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp), and indoor residual spraying (IRS). Overall, participants showed positive attitudes, with mean scores ranging from 4.27 to 4.41, indicating strong agreement regarding the effectiveness and safety of these methods. A majority of women agreed or strongly agreed that IRS is a good practice for malaria prevention (85.6%, n = 538), and 98.1% ( n = 617) believed ITNs are effective. Similarly, 94.0% ( n = 591) agreed that taking IPTp during pregnancy is necessary, and 94.2% ( n = 592) believed IPTp is safe for pregnant women. Most participants (97.8%, n = 615) felt comfortable sleeping under ITNs nightly, and 98.4% ( n = 619) believed ITNs reduce mosquito bites. Additionally, 91.9% ( n = 578) were comfortable with IRS in their homes, and 99.3% ( n = 624) would recommend ITNs to others. The overall mean attitude score was 4.34 (SD = 0.67), reflecting a strong positive perception of malaria prevention practices Table 3 Attitude Towards Utilization of ITNS, IPTS and IRS SA A NS D SD Mean SD Items N % N % n % n % N % I feel that the IRS is a good practice for preventing malaria in my home 376 59.8 162 25.8 29 4.6 39 6.2 23 3.7 4.32 1.06 Using insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) is an effective way to prevent malaria in my household.\" 270 42.9 347 55.2 1.1 3 0.5 2 0.3 4.40 0.57 I think taking IPT during pregnancy is necessary to prevent malaria 242 38.5 349 55.5 31 4.9 6 0.9 1 0.2 4.31 0.62 I believe IPTs are safe for pregnant women 250 39.8 342 54.4 34 5.4 2 0.3 1 0.2 4.33 0.61 I feel comfortable sleeping under an ITN every night 252 40.1 363 57.7 2 0.3 9 1.4 3 0.5 4.35 0.62 I think ITNs are effective in reducing mosquitoes bites 243 38.6 376 59.8 7 1.1 3 0.5 0 0.0 4.37 0.53 I am comfortable with my house being sprayed with IRS for malaria prevention 266 42.3 312 49.6 16 2.5 22 3.5 13 2.1 4.27 0.84 I would you recommend others to use ITNs for malaria prevention 262 41.7 362 57.6 4 0.6 1 0.2 0 0.0 4.41 0.51 Average 4.34 0.67 Perception Towards Utilization of ITNS, IPTS and IRS Table 4 presents the respondents’ perception toward the utilization of ITNs, IPTs, and IRS for malaria prevention. A majority of women (61.5%, n = 387) believed that IRS is safe for their households, and most (91.9%, n = 578) agreed that indoor spraying with insecticides helps reduce malaria transmission. Regarding concerns about IRS, the most frequently reported issue was the unpleasant odor or discomfort caused by the insecticide (51.7%, n = 325), followed by concerns about safety (21.9%, n = 138) and effectiveness (17.3%, n = 109). When using ITNs, almost all women (98.4%, n = 619) reported a reduction in mosquito bites, and 96.8%, (n = 609) believed that ITNs help prevent malaria. Additionally, 95.4% (n = 600) believed that IPT effectively reduces malaria risk in pregnant women. The main concerns regarding ITN use were safety (45.3%, n = 285), accessibility (31.5%, n = 198), and comfort (17.2%, n = 108). these findings indicate a generally positive perception of ITNs and IRS, although concerns related to comfort, accessibility, and safety persist. Overall, these findings indicate a generally positive perception of ITNs and IRS, although concerns related to comfort, accessibility and safety persist. Table 4 Perception Towards Utilization of ITNS, IPTS and IRS among participants Variable Number Percent Cost 44 7.0 Main concerns about using ITNs Accessibility 198 31.5 Comfort 108 17.2 Cost 27 4.3 Other 11 1.7 Safety 285 45.3 Believe IRS is safe for your household No 242 38.5 Yes 387 61.5 Believe IRS reduce malaria transmission No 51 8.1 Yes 578 91.9 Main concerns about the IRS Effectiveness 109 17.3 Other 13 2.1 Safety 138 21.9 Smell/Discomfort 325 51.7 Noticed any reduction in mosquito bites or malaria cases when using ITN No 10 1.6 Yes 619 98.4 IPTs effectively reduce malaria risk in pregnant women No 29 4.6 Yes 600 95.4 Although the quantitative data indicates strong reported belief in the effectiveness and safety of ITNs, IPTp, and IRS, the qualitative findings uncover deeper perceptions of discomfort, mistrust, and limited understanding that challenge consistent utilization. Many respondents expressed appreciation for ITNs and perceived it as good, but their continued use was challenged by perceived discomfort and reduced effectiveness. One participant shared: “Without net we wouldn’t sleep. Our place has a lot of mosquitoes and I use it because I know its benefit.” (R31). Another respondent said; “Nets have saved our children from mosquito bites and how I wish they would be distributed frequently.” (R32) “Net is good, it prevents mosquito bites, but the challenge comes when weather changes, especially during dry season. It can be too hot, so in most cases we are forced to remove it.” (R4) Notably, the qualitative finding uncovered significant gaps in knowledge and widespread misconceptions surrounding Intermittent Preventive Treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) which affects perception. For example, R4 shared, “The white drugs they give us during antenatal care visit have a very strong smell. I don’t like it and I remembered taking it once and it made me unwell, so I stopped taking it much as they emphasize you should take it for the good of the baby.” Similarly, Perceptions of Intermittent Preventive Treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) also revealed significant gaps in understanding. Although Fansidar (Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine) is routinely administered during antenatal care, many women lacked clarity about its preventive role. R25 noted, “IPTs (Fansidar) is generally not known for control of malaria but we use it during pregnancy because they give it to you from the hospital,” highlighting passive acceptance without informed consent. Others expressed outright unfamiliarity: “I do not know any drug pregnant women use to control malaria…” (R24), “I’ve never heard of IPTs before. I don’t know if I’ve used them” (R7), and “I thought Fansidar was just for treating malaria, not control…” (R9). These statements underscore a widespread perception that IPTp is either ineffective or misunderstood, which may hinder adherence. Negative experiences with IPTp further shaped perceptions; for examples “The white drugs they give us during antenatal care visits have a very strong smell. I don’t like it, and I remembered taking it once and it made me unwell, so I stopped taking it much as they emphasize you should take it for the good of the baby.” (R4) “The drugs made me feel sick, all the time you feel nausea and because of this I avoided taking it again.” (R11) while some respondents expressed preference for familiar treatments: “I only know Cartem for malaria, not this IPT drug you're talking about.”(R3) “I have never known about drugs that are used to control malaria apart from Cartem.” (R2) . Such discomfort with the medicine and lack of trust in it make people less willing to use it. Community responses to IRS revealed a complex interplay between acknowledged benefits and deeply rooted concerns. Narratives highlighted widespread discomfort with the odor of the insecticide, apprehensions about health risks, and culturally embedded fears particularly regarding male reproductive health. Additionally, rumors linking IRS to unintended consequences, such as bedbug infestations and soil degradation, further undermined trust. As illustrated by the following narratives “Spraying house reduces mosquitoes but only for a short while compared to how nets protect, but also spraying has more risk because the drug used is not good for our health and our animals. A reason they told us last time that after mopping the house we have to pour the water in the toilet.” (R32) “The drug can even affect the soil by killing small organisms in it resulting in poor crop yield.” (R310) “I didn’t spray because I feared it would harm my husband who is asthmatic.” (R16) “The drug they use for spraying is not safe at all, that’s why in the last exercise I didn’t spray my house.” (R29) Some perceptions were shaped by rumors and fears: “I’m not okay with spraying my house because we have heard that the drug makes men powerless and that means in future they will not be able to produce, and for me I have only boys children so I couldn’t carry out the exercise in the previous IRS.” (R39) “Spraying the house caused bedbugs, I witnessed in the last IRS exercise in my house and I was not the only one who experienced it, others were complaining too.” (R24) while another refused IRS due to rumors: “I heard IRS brought bed bugs” (R27). Factors Associated with Utilization of ITNs, IPTs and IRS Table 5 presents the bivariate analysis of factors influencing the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp), and indoor residual spraying (IRS) among women of reproductive age in Lira City. The analysis shows that several sociodemographic and contextual factors significantly affect utilization. Age was a significant factor, with women aged 21–30 and 31–40 more likely to use these interventions than those aged ≤ 20 or > 40 years (χ²=22.83, df = 3, p < 0.001). Marital status also played a role—married women showed higher utilization than single, divorced, or widowed women (χ²=25.82, df = 3, p < 0.001). Similarly, women living in permanent housing had higher utilization rates compared to those in semi-permanent or temporary structures (χ²=9.78, df = 1, p = 0.008). The presence of community myths about malaria significantly influenced uptake; women in communities without such myths were more likely to utilize interventions (χ²=11.36, df = 1, p < 0.001). Preferred treatment location was also important those who sought care at hospitals or clinics had higher utilization (χ²=19.12, df = 2, p < 0.001). Women who received encouragement from community leaders were more likely to use these interventions (χ²=3.96, df = 1 p = 0.047), as were those living within 1–5 km of a health facility (χ²=6.47, df = 2 p = 0.039). Notably, women who did not report challenges using bed nets had significantly higher utilization rates (χ²=20.77, p < 0.001). Moreover, women who had been educated about the importance of IPTp during pregnancy (χ²=24.70, df = 1, p < 0.001) and those who believed that IRS reduces malaria transmission (χ²=7.75, df = 1, p = 0.005) were significantly more likely to use these malaria prevention methods Table 5 Bivariate Analysis of Factors Associated with the Utilization of ITNs, IPTp, and IRS Among Women of Reproductive Age in Lira City Utilization Variable No (%) Yes (%) χ²(df) p-value Sociodemographic factors Age in years <=20 20 (10.1) 39 (9.1) 22.83(3) < 0.001* 21–30 82 (41.2) 185 (43.0) 31–40 56 (28.1) 171 (39.8) above 40 41 (20.6) 35 (8.1) Average household Income <=100000 90 (45.2) 218 (50.7) 1.96(2) 0.374 100001–200000 53 (26.6) 96 (22.3) above 200000 56 (28.1) 116 (27.0) Household size <5 102 (51.3) 230 (53.5) 0.272(1) 0.602 5+ 97 (48.7) 200 (46.5) Number of children <=2 123 (61.8) 290 (67.4) 1.91(1) 0.166 Above2 76 (38.2) 140 (32.6) Education level None 15 (7.5) 21 (4.9) 5.81(3) 0.121 Primary 65 (32.7) 122 (28.4) Secondary 78 (39.2) 210 (48.8) Tertiary 41 (20.6) 77 (17.9) Marital status Divorced 29 (14.6) 52 (12.1) 25.82(3) < 0.001* Married 128 (64.3) 345 (80.2) Single 31 (15.6) 24 (5.6) Widowed 11 (5.5) 9 (2.1) Occupation Civil Servant 15 (7.5) 40 (9.3) 7.02(4) 0.135 Farming 68 (34.2) 163 (37.9) Others Specify 4 (2.0) 12 (2.8%) Self-Employment 104 (52.3) 210 (48.8%) Student 8 (4.0) 5 (1.2) Type of housing do you live in Permanent 116 (58.3) 292 (67.9) 9.78(2) 0.008* Semi-permanent 57 (28.6) 111 (25.8) Temporary 26 (13.1) 27 (6.3) Place of residence Peri urban 75 (37.7) 150 (34.9) 0.466(1) 0.495 Urban 124 (62.3) 280 (65.1) Religious affiliation Catholics 71 (35.7) 161 (37.4) 3.55(4) 0.470 Muslim 9 (4.5) 10 (2.3) SDA 5 (2.5) 17 (4.0) Pentecostals 26 (13.1) 63 (14.7) Protestants 88 (44.2) 179 (41.6) Community factors Myths about malaria in your community No 138(69.3) 350(81.4) 11.36(1) < 0.001 Yes 61 (30.7) 80 (18.6) Women have the autonomy to make decisions regarding malaria No 22 (11.1) 66 (15.3) 2.08(1) 0.149 Yes 177(88.9) 364(84.7) Place of preference to seek treatment Both 20 (10.1) 10 (2.3) 19.12(2) < 0.001* Hospital /clinic 171(85.9) 391(90.9) Traditional medicine 8 (4.0) 29 (6.7) Leaders encourage or provide guidance No 21 (10.6) 26 (6.1) 3.96(1) 0.047* Yes 178(89.4) 403(93.9) Attended a malaria education session No 69 (34.7) 162(37.8) 0.56(1) 0.455 Yes 130(65.3) 267(62.2) Community health workers visit your household to provide information on malaria No 45 (22.6) 79 (18.5) 1.48(1) 0.224 Yes 154(77.4) 349(81.5) Distance to nearest health facility that provides malaria prevention tools 1-5km 95 (47.7) 232(54.0) 6.47(2) 0.039* < 1km 82 (41.2) 134(31.2) >5km 22 (11.1) 64 (14.9) Do you face challenges in using insecticide-treated bed nets No 130(65.3) 352(81.9) 20.77(1) < 0.001* Yes 69 (34.7) 78 (18.1) Personal factors Think ITNs help prevent malaria No 9 (4.5) 11 (2.6) 1.71(1) 0.192 Yes 190 (95.5) 419 (97.4) Educated IPT importance during pregnancy No 50 (25.1) 43 (10.0) 24.70(1) < 0.001* Yes 149 (74.9) 387 (90.0) Believe the IRS is safe for household use No 71 (35.7) 171 (39.8) 0.96(1) 0.327 Yes 128 (64.3) 259 (60.2) Believe IRS helps reduce malaria transmission No 25 (12.6) 26 (6.0) 7.75(1) 0.005* Yes 174 (87.4) 404 (94.0) χ²=Chi square Statistics; * Significant Variable at 0.05 Multivariate Analysis of Factors Associated with Utilization The logistic regression analysis in Table 6 identified several factors significantly associated with utilization of malaria control interventions among women of reproductive age in Lira City. These quantitative findings are supplemented by qualitative testimonies. Individuals who had ever received any form of education or had specifically been educated on intermittent preventive treatment (IPT) were significantly more likely to utilize services (AOR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.24–3.38, p = 0.005). Participant narratives emphasizing the role of information access reinforced this. One respondent noted, “I got some information during pregnancy, but there’s no regular program in our village to teach us about malaria. It’s only the LC1 that comes around sometimes to inform us when nets are being distributed” (R2). Another added, “The village health teams are there and they mainly identify pregnant mothers and direct them to attend antenatal care. They also participate in net distribution” (R32) . However, gaps in understanding were evident: “No one has ever explained to me what Fansidar or other malaria drugs are used for. I just take what I’m given at the hospital” (R4) , and “I thought Fansidar was just for treating malaria, not prevention” (R9) . These insights suggest that while education improves uptake, the quality and clarity of health messaging remain critical. Living in temporary housing was associated with lower odds of service utilization (AOR = 0.38, 95% CI: 0.19–0.75, p = 0.005). Qualitative data highlights structural challenges: “Our house is made of mahbati (iron sheets), and there is nowhere to hang the net properly” (R6), and maintenance issues: “Our nets are in bad condition because it was last distributed by government in 2023. The torn ones are being used by children because they are very weak” (R32). These statements explain why women in temporary or poorly structured homes may struggle to use ITNs consistently. Participants’ narratives reveal that environmental discomfort and behavioral factors hinder utilization. For instance, “During the dry season like this, it's too hot under the net and I stopped using it for over a month…new nets irritate a lot” (R9), and “I feel suffocated when I sleep under the net. It makes breathing difficult” (R7). Laziness in net reinstallation also affected use: “The only problem is laziness to tie especially after washing. You find that I can take three to four days before hanging it again” (R34). These testimonies align with the logistic regression result that difficulties in using ITNs reduced odds of utilisation (AOR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.29–0.68, p < 0.001). Laziness in net reinstallation also affected use: “The only problem is laziness to tie especially after washing. You find that I can take three to four days before hanging it again” (R34). Additionally, logistical issues such as poor net condition and lack of replacements were common; “Our nets are in bad condition, the torn ones are being used by children because they are very weak. We received few nets because it wasn’t enough for everyone, and I can’t afford to buy because it’s very expensive” (R32). Respondents aged above 40 years and single individuals were less likely to utilize malaria control services (AOR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.26–0.79, p = 0.005 and AOR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.16–0.59, p < 0.001, respectively). Qualitative testimonies hint at possible sociocultural influences, including mistrust and household roles; “I didn’t spray my house last time because I didn’t trust the person who was spraying people’s houses, they should always select good people” (R25), and “I’ve never sprayed my house because it’s very hard to collect things out of the house. I rely on nets instead” (R4). These accounts illustrate that older and single women may face practical, social, or trust-related barriers that reduce participation in malaria prevention. Table 6 Logistic Regression of Factors Associated with Utilization Variable COR (95%CI) p-value AOR (95%CI) p-value Type of house Permanent 1.00 1.00 Semi-permanent 0.77(0.52–1.14) 0.191 0.67(0.44–1.03) 0.069 Temporary 0.41(0.23–0.74) 0.003* 0.38(0.19–0.75) 0.005* Age in years <=30 1.00 1.00 31–40 1.56(0.84–2.90) 0.155 1.34(0.88–2.05) 0.171 40+ 0.44(0.22–0.88) 0.021* 0.45(0.26–0.79) 0.005* Face challenges with nets No 1.00 1.00 Yes 0.42(0.29–0.61) < 0.001* 0.44(0.29–0.68) < 0.001* Ever been educated on IPT No 1.00 1.00 Yes 3.02(1.92–4.73) < 0.001* 2.05(1.24–3.38) 0.005* Distance to the nearest facility < 5km 1.00 1.00 >=5km 1.19(0.69–2.04) 0.525 0.76(0.51–1.12) 0.171 Occupation Farming 1.00 1.00 Self employed 0.76(0.40–1.43) 0.393 0.76(0.52–1.12) 0.165 Student 0.23(0.07–0.83) 0.025* 0.29(0.08–1.09) 0.066 Marital status Married 1.00 1.00 Single 0.43(0.21–0.38) 0.019* 0.31(0.16–0.59) < 0.001* Believe ITN helps prevent malaria No 1.00 1.00 Yes 1.80(0.73–4.42) 0.197 2.10(0.80–5.52) 0.132 Believe IRS helps prevent malaria No 1.00 1.00 Yes 2.23(1.2–3.98) 0.006* 1.78(0.94–3.37) 0.076 Community myths and conception No 1.00 1.00 Yes 0.51(0.36–0.76) 0.001* 0.69(0.45–1.09) 0.114 1.00 = Reference; COR = Crude Odds Ratio, AOR = Adjusted Odds Ratio, *significant variable at 0.05 Additional factors from FGDs Although not all systemic factors were statistically significant, qualitative data revealed their substantial impact. Participants described irregular distribution and unreliable access to malaria control intervention: “I participated in the last net distribution and net was not enough for everyone” (R7) , and “The government health Centre is less costly but it’s far, and sometimes when you get there, there are no drugs” (R8) “The hospital is very far, and if you go you don’t find drugs, so I normally buy drugs from a drug shop” (R3) , and economic constraints: “Nets are readily available but they are expensive and we mostly rely on the ones given by government” (R36). These factors reduce timely and consistent use of malaria prevention tools. Financial constraints were also prominent: “Nets are readily available in supermarkets, but they are expensive and we mostly rely on the ones given by government” (R36) , and “ I normally buy drugs for malaria from a drug shop near home, and sometimes they allow us to pay in instalments” (R3). Negative experiences with malaria drugs discouraged continued use: “The drugs made me feel sick, I avoided taking it again” (R11) , and “The white drugs they give during antenatal care visits have a very strong smell. I remembered taking it once and it made me unwell” (R4). Participants also described poor communication from health providers: “Sometimes they give us drugs without telling us the use, but they only say this is to help the baby and this is for you” (R25) , and “We simply take the drug without understanding, because the nurses can be tired and so rude to ask them questions” (R26). Perceived inequities in intervention delivery were highlighted; “Why is it that the spraying is only done in Northern Uganda and more frequent in Lango sub-region?” (R38) , suggesting that regional disparities may erode trust and reduce participation. Discussion Knowledge, Attitude and Perception Towards Utilization of ITNs, IPTs and IRS The study revealed that most women possessed substantial knowledge of malaria prevention methods, particularly Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) and Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS). Health workers were the main source of information, and formal health facilities were the preferred place for treatment. This finding aligns with a study conducted in Nigeria, which reported that 90% of pregnant women had substantial knowledge of ITNs, with radio and television serving as the primary channels for malaria-related information [ 23 ]. Furthermore, these results support previous research highlighting the importance of health education in enhancing malaria awareness and promoting preventive behaviors [ 24 ][ 25 ] The high levels of malaria knowledge can be attributed to structured antenatal care programs, where malaria prevention is integrated into maternal healthcare services. Studies in Ethiopia and Mozambique indicate that women attending antenatal care regularly are exposed to repeated malaria prevention messaging, reinforcing their understanding[ 26 ]. Additionally, government-led malaria campaigns often distributed through radio, community outreach, and health worker engagement have played a significant role in increasing knowledge levels[ 27 ]. The high mean attitude score (4.34, SD = 0.67) reflects a generally positive outlook and willingness to use malaria prevention methods. This matches findings from Ghana, where mothers displayed strong support for malaria control strategies[ 28 ]. The positive attitudes towards malaria prevention may be influenced by personal experiences with malaria and the cost associated with malaria treatment that drains the family resources. Women, particularly those with children, tend to perceive malaria prevention as necessary due to the experience their children had in past infection[ 28 ]. Additionally, Education plays a pivotal role in shaping attitudes toward health interventions. Women who have received any form of education on malaria prevention strategies are more likely to trust and adopt medical interventions. For instance, the findings revealed that women with knowledge of Intermittent Preventive Treatment (IPT) exhibited higher utilization rates compared to their counterparts who had never received any form of education. Furthermore, insights from Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) indicated that women with higher levels of education demonstrated a deeper understanding of malaria preventive measures, including the rationale behind IPT and the importance of consistent adherence. These observations underscore the transformative impact of education in enhancing health literacy and promoting proactive health-seeking behaviors among women. However, attitude alone does not guarantee utilization. Studies in Uganda and Nigeria show that logistical challenges, affordability, and inconvenience impact adherence, even when attitudes are positive [ 29 ][ 30 ]. For instance, some women understand IRS is effective but reject it due to discomfort or fear of chemical exposure. This suggests that addressing environmental and logistical barriers is just as important as improving attitudes. Despite high knowledge and positive attitudes, there remains a mixed perception as many women expressed concerns about comfort and safety, particularly with ITNs and IRS, which affected their consistent use. Similar findings have been documented across sub-Saharan Africa, where behavioral and environmental barriers affect intervention uptake[ 31 ]. The discomfort associated with ITNs in hot climates is a well-documented challenge with many households reporting heat retention and perceived side effects as key reasons for inconsistent ITN use[ 32 ]. Similarly, the perception of IRS as toxic often stems from inadequate communication leading to mistrust[ 33 ] which undermines consistent utilization. In Southwestern Uganda, many people recognized the importance of ITNs, consistent use remained low due to discomfort, perceived side effects, and family disagreements[ 30 ][ 2 ]. Similarly, a study in Nigeria confirmed that while IRS was widely accepted as effective, comfort and logistical issues could affect community acceptance[ 29 ]. Additionally, in Southeast Asia systematic review conducted emphasized the need to understand behavioral and environmental barriers to improve ITN and IRS utilization in malaria-endemic regions[ 31 ] . Overall, the findings from Lira City are encouraging and suggest that women of reproductive age are well informed and generally supportive of malaria prevention strategies. However, as seen in other regions such as Ethiopia[ 33 ][ 34 ] and Mozambique[ 26 ], knowledge and positive attitudes do not always lead to proper practice. To bridge this gap, targeted health education and behavior change campaigns should address the specific concerns and misconceptions that hinder consistent use. Engaging trusted community health workers and integrating malaria prevention into maternal health services could further strengthen uptake. Sustained efforts that combine accurate information with practical support and culturally sensitive messaging are essential to enhance the overall effectiveness of malaria control strategies[ 27 ][ 35 ][ 36 ]. Level of utilization of ITNs, IPTs and IRS among Women The results from both qualitative and quantitative findings show that utilization of the three malaria prevention methods vary with ITNs being widely utilized most followed by IPTs and IRS. Particularly, the findings reveal a notably high utilization of Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) among women of reproductive age in Lira City, with 84.1% reporting use, a figure that surpasses national averages according to the Uganda Malaria Indicator Survey (UMIS) of 2018–2019. This high uptake is consistent with a study done across multiple regions in Uganda where 78.2% of women surveyed used insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) [ 37 ]. In Ethiopia, household ITN utilization also remains strong, with 83.5% reporting consistent use [ 38 ]. Similarly, in Kenya, 98.1% of household who own LLIN used them and the high utilization is attributed to mass distribution campaigns[ 39 ]. However, in contrast to these encouraging results, regional studies have reported lower ITN utilization, for example, 59.4% in Ethiopia [ 24 ], 52% in Sierra Leone[ 40 ], and 66.1% consistent use in Uganda despite 84% ownership [ 30 ]. These disparities suggest that while ownership may be widespread, actual utilization probably hinges on other factors such as education, cultural attitudes, and the effectiveness of community sensitization. The exceptional uptake in Lira City may therefore be attributed to their affordability, ease of use compared to other methods and targeted interventions efforts by government such as mass net distribution campaigns by the Ugandan Ministry of Health and partners such as the Global Fund and USAID in 2023, and the integration of ITN distribution into routine antenatal care and immunization services. Intermittent Preventive Treatment (IPT) during pregnancy also shows significant usage at 68%, indicating strong awareness and implementation of this malaria prevention strategy among women of reproductive age in Lira City. Since IPT is administered as medication during antenatal care visits, its uptake may reflect the effectiveness of health systems in encouraging preventive measures during pregnancy. The moderate adoption of IPT (68%) during pregnancy is consistent with findings from elsewhere in sub-Saharan Africa, where IPT utilization is influenced by antenatal care services and healthcare access [ 24 ]. While IPT uptake is generally improving, national data from Uganda ( UMIS 2018–2019 ) indicates that utilization remains below the strategic targets, suggesting room for increased awareness and service expansion. Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) has a notably lower adoption rate at 32.8%, with a majority (67.2% ) of women not using it. This is far below the WHO recommendation for implementation of IRS in areas with high malaria transmission of at least 80% household coverage to achieve effective vector control[ 41 ]. This finding aligns with a study conducted in Northern Uganda, which found that only one in three households preferred IRS over insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), indicating a similarly low adoption rate [ 42 ]. However, it contrasts sharply with findings from Zambia, where the acceptance level for IRS was high (87%), attributed to favorable timing and perceived effectiveness of the intervention [ 43 ]. Similarly, a study from Tororo, Uganda, reported that 79.9% of respondents expressed willingness to undergo repeat of IRS, suggesting regional variability in acceptance [ 8 ]. A systematic review and meta-analysis affirmed the efficacy of IRS in reducing malaria incidence but emphasized that its impact is most pronounced when household coverage exceeds 80% [ 44 ]. This demonstrates that while IRS has the potential to significantly curb malaria transmission, its effectiveness is heavily dependent on sufficient coverage. Several factors may contribute to the low uptake of IRS among women of reproductive age in Lira City. Misconceptions about the safety and effectiveness of IRS, along with concerns about chemical exposure, are common deterrents. Additionally, a lack of information and awareness may lead to hesitancy, especially among women who may not have full autonomy over household health decisions. This limitation, coupled with low trust in spraying programs, can hinder broader acceptance as illustrated by narratives. These findings highlight that knowledge and positive attitudes alone are not always enough to ensure consistent use of malaria prevention methods. Addressing barriers related to comfort, perception, and accessibility is essential to improving the effectiveness of these interventions. Overall, the low IRS utilization compared to ITNs suggests barriers to IRS implementation, similar to trends observed in other regions. Studies indicate that IRS acceptance depends heavily on cultural perceptions, accessibility, and trust in spraying programs[ 26 ][ 43 ]. Additionally, IRS is most effective when mosquitoes rest indoors, meaning its impact can be limited where housing structures do not support residual spraying[ 41 ]. A study conducted in Tanzania demonstrated that combining IRS with ITNs significantly reduced malaria transmission, indicating that integrated promotion of both interventions could enhance protection[ 45 ]. Factors associated with utilization of ITNs, IPTs and IRS among women Individuals who had received any form of education related to IPT were significantly more likely to utilize services. Qualitative findings further revealed that women with formal education demonstrated a deeper understanding of IPT although formal education did not emerge as a statistically significant factor in the quantitative analysis. These results align with previous research emphasizing the critical role of awareness and health education in promoting the adoption of preventive health measures[ 46 ][ 47 ]. For instance, a study conducted in Burundi found that education was a significant predictor of IPT utilization and was strongly associated with receiving the optimal dose among pregnant women [ 48 ]. Similarly, research from Nigeria indicated that pregnant women with secondary or tertiary education were 8.3 times more likely to use IPT compared to those without formal education [ 49 ]. Furthermore, education was found to play a critical role in improving IPT uptake [ 50 ]. These findings highlight the importance of health education programs in increasing IPT coverage and reducing malaria-related complications. Educated individuals are more likely to understand the benefits of ITNs, IPT, and IRS, leading to higher compliance with malaria prevention strategies. This corresponds with other studies, which emphasize that knowledge gaps, misconceptions, and lack of education are major barriers to ITN and IRS utilization[ 51 ][ 38 ]. Increasing community awareness and behavioral change communication strategies may further improve adoption of these interventions[ 36 ] Age was another influential factor, with individuals over 40 years being less likely to utilize malaria prevention services compared to those aged 30 years or younger (AOR = 0.45, p = 0.005). This finding supports the Mozambique study, which found that older age groups were more resistant to ITN adoption, possibly due to habitual attitudes or a lower perceived risk of malaria.[ 36 ]. Additionally, younger mothers are more consistent in ITN use[ 23 ], reinforcing the trend of lower malaria prevention uptake among older populations. This could be due to younger individuals being more receptive to public health campaigns and also surrounded by fear of malaria as being a young mother. Older individuals may perceive malaria as less of a threat due to lifelong exposure and personal coping mechanisms. Also, barriers related to mobility or accessibility may affect older populations. Challenges faced while using bed nets was significantly associated with lower utilization (AOR = 0.44, p < 0.001). This highlights the practical difficulties individuals experience in consistently using ITNs, such as discomfort, damage to the nets, or misconceptions about their effectiveness. This result align with other studies that identified barriers to ITN use such as poor ventilation, unpleasant odor, undesirable color, and discomfort while sleeping[ 52 ][ 36 ][ 53 ][ 25 ]. Addressing these issues through community engagement, improved net designs, and education could enhance ITN adoption. Single individuals were significantly less likely to utilize malaria prevention services compared to married ones. This could be due to household responsibility where married individuals, especially those with children, might prioritize malaria prevention for their families. It could also be to social support where married women may receive encouragement from spouses, family, or antenatal care programs, leading to higher uptake of control interventions This finding conforms with studies that support the notion that married women or those living with partners are more likely to use ITNs due to family responsibilities and awareness from antenatal care services[ 23 ][ 32 ]. Individuals living in temporary housing were less likely to utilize malaria prevention services. This suggests that those in less stable living conditions may face challenges such as limited access to health programs, difficulty maintaining ITNs properly, and consequently, greater exposure to mosquito breeding sites. This is consistent with a study conducted in Mozambique, which found that poorer households with access to ITNs were more likely to use them highlighting the crucial role of economic stability and resource availability[ 36 ]. Similarly, higher income levels have been shown to facilitate ITN acquisition and utilization, reinforcing the idea that financial constraints limit access to preventive interventions[ 32 ]. Since IRS is most effective where mosquitoes rest indoor, temporary housing may also reduce the impact of IRS and discourage its adoption. Conclusion and recommendations Women demonstrated substantial knowledge of malaria prevention, with ITNs being the most commonly used method. However, gaps remain in understanding the role of IPTp despite its high acceptance. Education level, age, marital status, and housing type were key factors influencing uptake. While many respondents engage in prevention, full adoption of ITNs, IRS, and IPTp is still limited. To improve uptake, stakeholders should strengthen behavior change communication, ensure consistent supply of ITNs and IRS, and maintain the ongoing integration of malaria education into antenatal care services. Building trust between healthcare providers and women, training community leaders, and empowering VHTs to reach vulnerable groups are essential for enhancing adherence and impact. Abbreviations IRS: Indoor Residual Spraying ITN : Insecticides Treated Nets LLINs: Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets MOH : Ministry of Health WHO: World Health Organization IPTp : Intermittent Preventive Treatment during Pregnancy. IPT: Intermittent Preventive Treatment NMCP: National Malaria Control Program UMIS: Uganda Malaria Indicator Survey UBOS: Uganda Bureau of Statistic VHTs: Village Health Teams ANC: Antenatal care Declarations Ethics approval and consent to participate This study was conducted in accordance with the Uganda National Guidelines for Research Involving Humans as Research Participants. Ethical approval for this study was sought from Gulu University Research Ethics Committee (GUREC-2024-989)). Permission to collect data within the community was obtained from City clerk of Lira City. Prior to participation, written informed consent was sought, and for illiterate participants consent was obtained from legal guardians and involvement was entirely voluntary. The collected data was exclusively utilized for this study, and participants were informed about the potential publication of the study results. To ensure clarity, the data collection tool (questionnaire) was translated into the native language, 'leb lango,' and then back into English before the commencement of data collection. Consent for publication Not applicable Availability of data and materials The datasets used and/or analysed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request. Competing Interests The authors have no declared conflicts of interest. Funding The research work did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors Author contributions. EA, HA, BO and RO 1 contributed to study design, development, data collection monitoring, and writing of the manuscript. EA, RO 2 and BO participated in data collection, data entry and data analysis. All authors contributed to manuscript editing and approval of the final version. Acknowledgments: We sincerely thank the participants from Lira City for their valuable contributions to this study. We are grateful to the local administration for granting permission to conduct the research. We also acknowledge the Department of Biology at Gulu University for their academic guidance and support throughout the research process, and the management of Lira University for allowing time away from regular duties to facilitate the study. References E. Sarpong et al. , “Zero malaria: a mirage or reality for populations of sub-Saharan Africa in health transition,” Malar. J. , vol. 21, no. 1, pp. 1–12, 2022, doi: 10.1186/s12936-022-04340-1. I. M. Taremwa, S. Ashaba, R. Kyarisiima, C. Ayebazibwe, R. Ninsiima, and C. Mattison, “Treatment-seeking and uptake of malaria prevention strategies among pregnant women and caregivers of children under-five years during COVID-19 pandemic in rural communities in South West Uganda: a qualitative study,” BMC Public Health , vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 1–13, 2022, doi: 10.1186/s12889-022-12771-3. J. Mukala et al. , “Knowledge, attitude and practices on intermittent preventive treatment in pregnant women with malaria: a mixed method facility-based study in Western Kenya,” Pan Afr. Med. J. , vol. 48, 2024, doi: 10.11604/pamj.2024.48.22.42196. B. L. Solanke, D. A. Soladoye, I. A. Birsirka, A. Abdurraheem, and O. R. Salau, “Utilization of insecticide-treated nets and associated factors among childbearing women in Northern Nigeria,” Malar. J. , vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 1–11, 2023, doi: 10.1186/s12936-023-04620-4. M. A. S. Mbengue et al. , “Factors influencing the use of malaria prevention strategies by women in Senegal: A cross-sectional study,” Malar. J. , vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 1–9, 2017, doi: 10.1186/s12936-017-2095-2. WHO, World malaria World malaria report report . 2023. [Online]. Available: https://www.wipo.int/amc/en/mediation/%0Ahttps://www.who.int/teams/global-malaria-programme/reports/world-malaria-report-2023 WHO, World Malaria Report: 20 years of global progress and challenges . 2020. [Online]. Available: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240015791 I. Wadunde et al. , “Factors associated with willingness to take up indoor residual spraying to prevent malaria in Tororo district, Uganda: A cross-sectional study,” Malar. J. , vol. 17, no. 1, pp. 1–11, 2018, doi: 10.1186/s12936-017-2163-7. I. Niohuru, Disease Burden and Mortality . 2023. doi: 10.1007/978-3-031-19719-2_3. S. T. Wafula et al. , “What are the pathways between poverty and malaria in sub-Saharan Africa? A systematic review of mediation studies,” Infect. Dis. Poverty , vol. 12, no. 1, pp. 1–18, 2023, doi: 10.1186/s40249-023-01110-2. Organización Mundial de la Salud, Informe de Malaria de la Organización Mundial de la Salud- 2023II . 2023. D. Roberts and G. Matthews, “Risk factors of malaria in children under the age of five years old in Uganda,” Malar. J. , vol. 15, no. 1, pp. 1–11, 2016, doi: 10.1186/s12936-016-1290-x. D. Chilot et al. , “Pooled prevalence and risk factors of malaria among children aged 6–59 months in 13 sub-Saharan African countries: A multilevel analysis using recent malaria indicator surveys,” PLoS One , vol. 18, no. 5 MAY, pp. 1–16, 2023, doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285265. U. M. I. S. 2018-19 NMCD, UBOS, ICF, “Uganda Malaria Indicator Survey 2018-19. Kampala, Uganda,” p. 52, 2020, [Online]. Available: https://www.dhsprogram.com/pubs/pdf/MIS34/MIS34.pdf USAID / PMI, “Presidential ’s Malaria Initiative Uganda Malaria Operational Plan FY 2017,” p. 10, 2017. J. Epuitai and G. Ndeezi, “Prevalence and factors associated with placental malaria in Lira District , Northern Uganda : a cross- sectional study,” pp. 1–17, 2023. M. W. Aregawi et al. , “Malaria epidemics and its drivers in Uganda in 2022,” Malar. J. , vol. 24, no. 1, 2025, doi: 10.1186/s12936-025-05351-4. B. Terefe, A. Habtie, and B. Chekole, “Insecticide-treated net utilization and associated factors among pregnant women in East Africa: evidence from the recent national demographic and health surveys, 2011–2022,” Malar. J. , vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 1–9, 2023, doi: 10.1186/s12936-023-04779-w. F. C. Godoi, S. Prakash, and B. R. Bhandari, “Final report Final report,” Rev. 3D Print. potential red meat Appl. , vol. 1, no. 23 February 2021, pp. 1–61, 2021, [Online]. Available: http://libdcms.nida.ac.th/thesis6/2010/b166706.pdf A. Marie et al. , “Quarterly Epidemiological Bulletin: April – June, 2023,” vol. 8, no. 2, pp. 2017–2021, 2023. R. Mwesige, J. P. Byagamy, R. Opiro, H. Angwech, and P. B. Ocen, “Species composition and feeding pattern of malaria vectors in indoor and non-indoor residual spraying districts of Lira and Kole , Northern Uganda,” 2024. M. C. Lakshminarasimhappa, “Web-Based and Smart Mobile App for Data Collection: Kobo Toolbox / Kobo Collect,” J. Indian Libr. Assoc. , vol. 57, no. 2, pp. 72–79, 2021. I. J. Ilo, U. A. Umeh, S. I. Okolie, I. O. Ehiemere, C. C. Agunwa, and C. R. Umeh, “Knowledge and Use of Insecticide Treated Nets Among Pregnant Women in Enugu Urban,” Orient J. Med. , vol. 32, no. 3–4, pp. 87–96, 2020, [Online]. Available: https://www.ajol.info/index.php/ojm/article/view/201864 G. A. Kassie et al. , “Insecticide-treated bed net utilization and associated factors among pregnant women in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis,” Malar. J. , vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 1–17, 2023, doi: 10.1186/s12936-023-04655-7. A. R. Akello, J. P. Byagamy, S. Etajak, C. S. Okadhi, and A. Yeka, “Factors influencing consistent use of bed nets for the control of malaria among children under 5 years in Soroti District, North Eastern Uganda,” Malar. J. , vol. 21, no. 1, pp. 1–13, 2022, doi: 10.1186/s12936-022-04396-z. A. Magaço et al. , “Community knowledge and acceptance of indoor residual spraying for malaria prevention in Mozambique: A qualitative study,” Malar. J. , vol. 18, no. 1, pp. 1–12, 2019, doi: 10.1186/s12936-019-2653-x. D. T. Jumbam et al. , “Knowledge, attitudes and practices assessment of malaria interventions in rural Zambia,” BMC Public Health , vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 1–15, 2020, doi: 10.1186/s12889-020-8235-6. P. Adum, V. A. Agyare, J. Owusu-Marfo, and Y. N. Agyeman, “Knowledge, attitude and practices of malaria preventive measures among mothers with children under five years in a rural setting of Ghana,” Malar. J. , vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 1–12, 2023, doi: 10.1186/s12936-023-04702-3. A. I. Omotayo et al. , “Community Knowledge, Attitude and Practices on Malaria Vector Control Strategies in Lagos State, South-West Nigeria,” J. Med. Entomol. , vol. 58, no. 3, pp. 1280–1286, 2021, doi: 10.1093/jme/tjaa278. I. M. Taremwa et al. , “Knowledge, attitude and behaviour towards the use of insecticide treated mosquito nets among pregnant women and children in rural Southwestern Uganda,” BMC Public Health , vol. 17, no. 1, pp. 4–11, 2017, doi: 10.1186/s12889-017-4824-4. B. Cheng, S. N. Htoo, N. P. P. Mhote, and C. M. Davison, “A systematic review of factors influencing participation in two types of malaria prevention intervention in Southeast Asia,” Malar. J. , vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 1–9, 2021, doi: 10.1186/s12936-021-03733-y. O. Nkoka, T. W. Chuang, K. Y. Chuang, and Y. H. Chen, “Factors associated with insecticide-treated net usage among women of childbearing age in Malawi: A multilevel analysis,” Malar. J. , vol. 17, no. 1, pp. 1–16, 2018, doi: 10.1186/s12936-018-2522-z. T. G. Fuge, S. Y. Ayanto, and F. L. Gurmamo, “Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice about malaria and ITNs utilization among pregnant women in Shashogo District, Southern Ethiopia,” Malar. J. , vol. 14, no. 1, pp. 1–9, 2015, doi: 10.1186/s12936-015-0755-7. A. Asale et al. , “Community knowledge, perceptions, and practices regarding malaria and its control in Jabi Tehnan district, Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia,” Malar. J. , vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 1–13, 2021, doi: 10.1186/s12936-021-03996-5. N. A. Naserrudin et al. , “Knowledge, compliance, and challenges in anti-malarial products usage: a systematic review of at-risk communities for zoonotic malaria,” BMC Public Health , vol. 24, no. 1, pp. 1–16, 2024, doi: 10.1186/s12889-024-17792-8. J. Scott, M. Kanyangarara, A. Nhama, E. Macete, W. J. Moss, and F. Saute, “Factors associated with use of insecticide ‑ treated net for malaria prevention in Manica District , Mozambique : a community ‑ based cross ‑ sectional survey,” Malar. J. , pp. 1–9, 2021, doi: 10.1186/s12936-021-03738-7. E. K. Ameyaw, Y. O. Kareem, and S. Yaya, “Individual, community and region level predictors of insecticide-treated net use among women in Uganda: A multilevel analysis,” Malar. J. , vol. 19, no. 1, pp. 1–9, 2020, doi: 10.1186/s12936-020-03412-4. E. M. Tadesse, Y. S. Baruda, and T. M. Tadesse, “Assessment of household insecticide-treated bed net ownership, utilization, and associated factors in Kersa Woreda, Jimma Zone, Southwest Ethiopia,” J. Heal. Popul. Nutr. , vol. 43, no. 1, 2024, doi: 10.1186/s41043-024-00684-3. P. N. Ng’ang’a, P. Aduogo, and C. M. Mutero, “Long lasting insecticidal mosquito nets (LLINs) ownership, use and coverage following mass distribution campaign in Lake Victoria basin, Western Kenya,” BMC Public Health , vol. 21, no. 1, pp. 1–13, 2021, doi: 10.1186/s12889-021-11062-7. C. Marsh, D. Ruggiero, R. C. Marsh, and E. Di Ruggiero, “Improving the utilization of insecticide ‑ treated nets for malaria prevention among pregnant women , lactating mothers and children in Sierra Leone : a commentary,” Malar. J. , 2025, doi: 10.1186/s12936-025-05429-z. WHO, “Guideline WHO Guidelines for malaria - 14 March 2023,” Who , pp. 1–447, 2023, [Online]. Available: http://apps.who.int/bookorders.%0Ahttps://www.mmv.org/sites/default/files/content/document/WHO-UCN-GMP-2023.01-eng.pdf R. Echodu, W. S. Oyet, T. Iwiru, J. J. Lutwama, and O. Otim, “Household predictors of malaria episode in Northern Uganda: Its implication for future malaria control,” BMC Public Health , 2021, doi: 10.1186/s12889-025-22175-8. M. Aongola, P. Kaonga, C. Michelo, J. Zgambo, J. Lupenga, and C. Jacobs, “Acceptability and associated factors of indoor residual spraying for malaria control by households in Luangwa district of Zambia: A multilevel analysis,” PLOS Glob. Public Heal. , vol. 2, no. 8, pp. 1–13, 2022, doi: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000368. Y. Zhou et al. , “Effectiveness of indoor residual spraying on malaria control: a systematic review and meta-analysis,” Infect. Dis. Poverty , vol. 11, no. 1, 2022, doi: 10.1186/s40249-022-01005-8. P. A. West et al. , “Enhanced Protection against Malaria by Indoor Residual Spraying in Addition to Insecticide Treated Nets : Is It Dependent on Transmission Intensity or Net Usage ?,” pp. 1–14, 2015, doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115661. R. O. Chimezie, “Health Awareness: A Significant Factor in Chronic Diseases Prevention and Access to Care,” J. Biosci. Med. , vol. 11, no. 02, pp. 64–79, 2023, doi: 10.4236/jbm.2023.112005. K. Omona, “Factors Influencing Uptake of IPTp3+ Among Pregnant Women Attending ANC in Mawokota North Health Sub District, Mpigi District, Uganda,” Cogniz. J. Multidiscip. Stud. , vol. 1, no. 3, pp. 17–29, 2021, doi: 10.47760/cognizance.2021.v01i03.002. E. Nkunzimana and M. S. Babale, “Knowledge and Utilisation of Intermittent Preventive Treatment of Malaria,” East African Heal. Res. J. , vol. 4, no. 1, pp. 81–91, 2020. G. O. Peters and M. Naidoo, “Factors influencing intermittent preventive treatment for malaria prevention among pregnant women accessing antenatal care in selected primary health care facilities of Bwari Area Council, Abuja Nigeria,” PLoS One , vol. 17, no. 12 December, pp. 1–18, 2022, doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277877. D. Chefor, E. Njih, and G. Tchatchouang, “Knowledge , Attitudes , and Utilization of Intermittent Preventive Treatment for Malaria Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in Private Facilities : A Study in Five Selected Health Areas of the Dschang Health District,” vol. 3, no. 3, pp. 62–75, 2025, doi: 10.63002/asrp.33.939. D. Nesga, D. Abate, G. Birhanu, and A. Addissie, “Assessment of Malaria Vector Control Measures ( ITNs & IRS ) Utilization and Factors Affecting it in Adama District , East Shoa Zone , Oromia Region Ethiopia , 2018,” vol. 6, no. 2, pp. 46–51, 2020, doi: 10.11648/j.jfmhc.20200602.13. K. D. Konlan, N. Kossi Vivor, I. Gegefe, and L. Hayford, “Factors associated with ownership and utilization of insecticide treated nets among children under five years in sub-Saharan Africa,” BMC Public Health , vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 1–11, 2022, doi: 10.1186/s12889-022-13347-x. C. S. Ahorlu et al. , “Understanding the gap between access and use: a qualitative study on barriers and facilitators to insecticide-treated net use in Ghana,” Malar. J. , vol. 18, no. 1, pp. 1–14, 2019, doi: 10.1186/s12936-019-3051-0. Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Published Journal Publication published 09 Mar, 2026 Read the published version in BMC Public Health → Version 1 posted Editorial decision: Revision requested 26 Nov, 2025 Reviews received at journal 24 Nov, 2025 Reviewers agreed at journal 12 Nov, 2025 Reviews received at journal 03 Nov, 2025 Reviews received at journal 02 Nov, 2025 Reviewers agreed at journal 26 Oct, 2025 Reviewers agreed at journal 24 Oct, 2025 Reviewers invited by journal 23 Oct, 2025 Editor invited by journal 21 Oct, 2025 Editor assigned by journal 19 Oct, 2025 Submission checks completed at journal 19 Oct, 2025 First submitted to journal 16 Oct, 2025 You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. Our growing team is made up of researchers and industry professionals working together to solve the most critical problems facing scientific publishing. Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {\"props\":{\"pageProps\":{\"initialData\":{\"identity\":\"rs-7878214\",\"acceptedTermsAndConditions\":true,\"allowDirectSubmit\":false,\"archivedVersions\":[],\"articleType\":\"Research Article\",\"associatedPublications\":[],\"authors\":[{\"id\":539395602,\"identity\":\"3db81d6d-0035-4a14-8d9f-d302c7dcc65c\",\"order_by\":0,\"name\":\"Everline Apio\",\"email\":\"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA2ElEQVRIie3OoQvCQBTH8SeCKydXnyDsX7gVNYj+KwcLK6eYRFBwaRbBqiD+Gcs3BlomGo1LpiHajN7WLKdrgvdNr3z4PQCT6UeTMOmQ4uLfkwRLEqgEWOIpah0j+dhhs71IWmkKPRvQO2tJYznk0SZE0kxEm3FwHR/FSEuYFCyuK4IgWsihygEF15L+KVNkqwjNcjL/TBjmK74iWKzEinhSS/By49F6n5PrGDk7OAHJtALoahDf77NuH6kbNp6TqU0tL9UbIG9/AtSAsDKkyPq0YjKZTH/WC2XTPJumn07OAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC\",\"orcid\":\"\",\"institution\":\"Lira University\",\"correspondingAuthor\":true,\"prefix\":\"\",\"firstName\":\"Everline\",\"middleName\":\"\",\"lastName\":\"Apio\",\"suffix\":\"\"},{\"id\":539395603,\"identity\":\"deb6a2ca-3467-4d33-893b-1d99d91160ec\",\"order_by\":1,\"name\":\"Harriet Angwech\",\"email\":\"\",\"orcid\":\"\",\"institution\":\"Gulu University\",\"correspondingAuthor\":false,\"prefix\":\"\",\"firstName\":\"Harriet\",\"middleName\":\"\",\"lastName\":\"Angwech\",\"suffix\":\"\"},{\"id\":539395604,\"identity\":\"b786a013-264b-403b-850d-b3b967abceb6\",\"order_by\":2,\"name\":\"Bosco Opio\",\"email\":\"\",\"orcid\":\"\",\"institution\":\"Lira University\",\"correspondingAuthor\":false,\"prefix\":\"\",\"firstName\":\"Bosco\",\"middleName\":\"\",\"lastName\":\"Opio\",\"suffix\":\"\"},{\"id\":539395605,\"identity\":\"52d6d75d-16c2-4217-b94a-125269eae44a\",\"order_by\":3,\"name\":\"Robert Opoke\",\"email\":\"\",\"orcid\":\"\",\"institution\":\"Muni University\",\"correspondingAuthor\":false,\"prefix\":\"\",\"firstName\":\"Robert\",\"middleName\":\"\",\"lastName\":\"Opoke\",\"suffix\":\"\"},{\"id\":539395606,\"identity\":\"c9437334-bfe1-446a-ba11-773a8bb6dbbe\",\"order_by\":4,\"name\":\"Robert Opiro\",\"email\":\"\",\"orcid\":\"\",\"institution\":\"Gulu University\",\"correspondingAuthor\":false,\"prefix\":\"\",\"firstName\":\"Robert\",\"middleName\":\"\",\"lastName\":\"Opiro\",\"suffix\":\"\"}],\"badges\":[],\"createdAt\":\"2025-10-16 13:23:27\",\"currentVersionCode\":1,\"declarations\":\"\",\"doi\":\"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7878214/v1\",\"doiUrl\":\"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-7878214/v1\",\"draftVersion\":[],\"editorialEvents\":[{\"content\":\"https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-026-26899-z\",\"type\":\"published\",\"date\":\"2026-03-09T15:59:57+00:00\"}],\"editorialNote\":\"\",\"failedWorkflow\":false,\"files\":[{\"id\":95226798,\"identity\":\"2e94544b-524b-4591-aedd-7caee5116e0f\",\"added_by\":\"auto\",\"created_at\":\"2025-11-05 16:31:44\",\"extension\":\"docx\",\"order_by\":0,\"title\":\"\",\"display\":\"\",\"copyAsset\":false,\"role\":\"acdc-reference\",\"size\":456852,\"visible\":true,\"origin\":\"\",\"legend\":\"\",\"description\":\"\",\"filename\":\"MANUSCRIPT.1.docx\",\"url\":\"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7878214/v1/a9e7ec4de991860942262b83.docx\"},{\"id\":95170905,\"identity\":\"88482108-39c1-424c-a6b8-fc91666e7155\",\"added_by\":\"auto\",\"created_at\":\"2025-11-05 06:30:22\",\"extension\":\"json\",\"order_by\":1,\"title\":\"\",\"display\":\"\",\"copyAsset\":false,\"role\":\"acdc-reference\",\"size\":7612,\"visible\":true,\"origin\":\"\",\"legend\":\"\",\"description\":\"\",\"filename\":\"1a6aad3d13a44572902dc007c339e99a.json\",\"url\":\"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7878214/v1/286978246fa1a34d796658ac.json\"},{\"id\":95170906,\"identity\":\"27fdea24-209d-40ba-8544-377481b5d107\",\"added_by\":\"auto\",\"created_at\":\"2025-11-05 06:30:22\",\"extension\":\"xml\",\"order_by\":2,\"title\":\"\",\"display\":\"\",\"copyAsset\":false,\"role\":\"acdc-reference\",\"size\":225413,\"visible\":true,\"origin\":\"\",\"legend\":\"\",\"description\":\"\",\"filename\":\"1a6aad3d13a44572902dc007c339e99a1enriched.xml\",\"url\":\"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7878214/v1/0c3fac43b90635cacc65d1a4.xml\"},{\"id\":95170901,\"identity\":\"70413be5-50e8-4a98-a284-bbf2269f96b0\",\"added_by\":\"auto\",\"created_at\":\"2025-11-05 06:30:22\",\"extension\":\"png\",\"order_by\":3,\"title\":\"\",\"display\":\"\",\"copyAsset\":false,\"role\":\"acdc-reference\",\"size\":220689,\"visible\":true,\"origin\":\"\",\"legend\":\"\",\"description\":\"\",\"filename\":\"floatimage1.png\",\"url\":\"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7878214/v1/b977a70251589d27fa2cc8c9.png\"},{\"id\":95226315,\"identity\":\"6df26c89-2add-4b0c-a452-9f40a0eb6966\",\"added_by\":\"auto\",\"created_at\":\"2025-11-05 16:30:56\",\"extension\":\"png\",\"order_by\":4,\"title\":\"\",\"display\":\"\",\"copyAsset\":false,\"role\":\"acdc-reference\",\"size\":79262,\"visible\":true,\"origin\":\"\",\"legend\":\"\",\"description\":\"\",\"filename\":\"floatimage2.png\",\"url\":\"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7878214/v1/0cbe6f30adab5f247f9cf63e.png\"},{\"id\":95170904,\"identity\":\"9791599e-2e6a-4e05-95e4-f78e909f0b20\",\"added_by\":\"auto\",\"created_at\":\"2025-11-05 06:30:22\",\"extension\":\"png\",\"order_by\":5,\"title\":\"\",\"display\":\"\",\"copyAsset\":false,\"role\":\"acdc-reference\",\"size\":31787,\"visible\":true,\"origin\":\"\",\"legend\":\"\",\"description\":\"\",\"filename\":\"Onlinefloatimage1.png\",\"url\":\"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7878214/v1/1f4353a0b3f7349d41094edd.png\"},{\"id\":95170903,\"identity\":\"06411dff-50a0-4f8e-b2ae-4d877a0513d9\",\"added_by\":\"auto\",\"created_at\":\"2025-11-05 06:30:22\",\"extension\":\"png\",\"order_by\":6,\"title\":\"\",\"display\":\"\",\"copyAsset\":false,\"role\":\"acdc-reference\",\"size\":17870,\"visible\":true,\"origin\":\"\",\"legend\":\"\",\"description\":\"\",\"filename\":\"Onlinefloatimage2.png\",\"url\":\"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7878214/v1/ee66c38f69c850278a7fb6e9.png\"},{\"id\":95226805,\"identity\":\"b5e0f93e-e58e-44cd-95aa-f2d4d3b9720f\",\"added_by\":\"auto\",\"created_at\":\"2025-11-05 16:31:44\",\"extension\":\"xml\",\"order_by\":7,\"title\":\"\",\"display\":\"\",\"copyAsset\":false,\"role\":\"acdc-reference\",\"size\":227366,\"visible\":true,\"origin\":\"\",\"legend\":\"\",\"description\":\"\",\"filename\":\"1a6aad3d13a44572902dc007c339e99a1structuring.xml\",\"url\":\"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7878214/v1/e4104beff84c1e86ff9b4e58.xml\"},{\"id\":95170908,\"identity\":\"a0db6969-2521-49b9-bc75-74ceee1d1a5b\",\"added_by\":\"auto\",\"created_at\":\"2025-11-05 06:30:22\",\"extension\":\"html\",\"order_by\":8,\"title\":\"\",\"display\":\"\",\"copyAsset\":false,\"role\":\"acdc-reference\",\"size\":240833,\"visible\":true,\"origin\":\"\",\"legend\":\"\",\"description\":\"\",\"filename\":\"earlyproof.html\",\"url\":\"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7878214/v1/2d7323aa6b184f2d63c2962c.html\"},{\"id\":95170899,\"identity\":\"f4f89924-2174-4baa-8235-c7440f664425\",\"added_by\":\"auto\",\"created_at\":\"2025-11-05 06:30:22\",\"extension\":\"png\",\"order_by\":1,\"title\":\"Figure 1\",\"display\":\"\",\"copyAsset\":false,\"role\":\"figure\",\"size\":220689,\"visible\":true,\"origin\":\"\",\"legend\":\"\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eMap showing the study areas within Lira City. The main map on the left illustrates the administrative boundaries of Lira district\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\",\"description\":\"\",\"filename\":\"floatimage1.png\",\"url\":\"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7878214/v1/f434869dcf6cdcc30da707c4.png\"},{\"id\":95170900,\"identity\":\"7f011e0d-e59a-486c-86a6-14f63a692165\",\"added_by\":\"auto\",\"created_at\":\"2025-11-05 06:30:22\",\"extension\":\"png\",\"order_by\":2,\"title\":\"Figure 2\",\"display\":\"\",\"copyAsset\":false,\"role\":\"figure\",\"size\":70751,\"visible\":true,\"origin\":\"\",\"legend\":\"\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eUtilization of ITNs, IPTs and IRS among Women of Reproductive Age in Lira City\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\",\"description\":\"\",\"filename\":\"floatimage2.png\",\"url\":\"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7878214/v1/3b351f337c16326c5aaf717c.png\"},{\"id\":104740369,\"identity\":\"d959b66e-4541-410e-a103-77038ce24b82\",\"added_by\":\"auto\",\"created_at\":\"2026-03-16 16:17:13\",\"extension\":\"pdf\",\"order_by\":0,\"title\":\"\",\"display\":\"\",\"copyAsset\":false,\"role\":\"manuscript-pdf\",\"size\":2286137,\"visible\":true,\"origin\":\"\",\"legend\":\"\",\"description\":\"\",\"filename\":\"manuscript.pdf\",\"url\":\"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7878214/v1/0e122522-fc54-46fb-8176-14a76b9ff67e.pdf\"}],\"financialInterests\":\"No competing interests reported.\",\"formattedTitle\":\"Utilization of Malaria Control Interventions and Associated Factors Among Women of Reproductive Age in Lira City, Northern Uganda\",\"fulltext\":[{\"header\":\"Introduction\",\"content\":\"\\u003cp\\u003eMalaria is a life-threatening disease caused by \\u003cem\\u003ePlasmodium\\u003c/em\\u003e parasites and transmitted through the bites of infected female \\u003cem\\u003eAnopheles\\u003c/em\\u003e mosquitoes[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR1\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e1\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR2\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR3\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e3\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Despite being preventable and treatable, malaria continues to heavily impact health and livelihoods globally, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR1\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e1\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR4\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e4\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable, with infections linked to adverse outcomes such as low birth weight and increased infant mortality [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR5\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e5\\u003c/span\\u003e]. In 2023, an estimated 36\\u0026nbsp;million pregnancies occurred across 33 moderate to high transmission countries in the WHO African Region, of which 12.4\\u0026nbsp;million (34%) were infected with malaria, contributing to approximately 763,000 cases of low birth weight, a modest decline from 822,000 cases in 2020, yet still reflecting a substantial burden that demands strengthened antenatal malaria prevention and care[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR6\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e6\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR7\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e7\\u003c/span\\u003e].\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eIn 2023, approximately 263\\u0026nbsp;million people contracted malaria globally, resulting in 597,000 deaths across 83 countries, marking an increase of 11\\u0026nbsp;million cases from the previous year[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR6\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e6\\u003c/span\\u003e]. The African Region accounted for 94% of all cases and 95% of deaths, with children under five comprising nearly 80% of fatalities. The three countries with the highest estimated case burdens were Nigeria (26%), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (13%), and Uganda (5%)[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR6\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e6\\u003c/span\\u003e].\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eThe high burden in Africa is driven by factors such as limited access to healthcare, inadequate preventive resources, and favorable environmental conditions for mosquito breeding [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR8\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e8\\u003c/span\\u003e]. To mitigate transmission, sub-Saharan Africa has scaled up interventions such as intermittent preventive treatment (IPT), indoor residual spraying (IRS), and insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), particularly targeting pregnant women and children under five years of age[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR9\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e9\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR10\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e10\\u003c/span\\u003e].\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eUganda ranks third globally in malaria cases and eighth in malaria-related deaths, contributing 5.1% and 2.9% of the global totals, respectively. The country bears the highest malaria burden in East and Southern Africa, with 23% of regional cases[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR11\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e11\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Although the entire population is at various levels of risk of malaria, children under five years and pregnant women bears the highest risk[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR12\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e12\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR13\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e13\\u003c/span\\u003e]. While Uganda has made progress in implementing interventions such as ITNs, IRS, artemisinin-based combination therapies, and IPTp, the burden remains high in certain regions. Northern Uganda, in particular, experiences intense transmission, with incidence rates exceeding 450 cases per 1,000 people [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR14\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e14\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Uptake of three or more doses of Intermittent Preventive Treatment in pregnancy (IPTp3) is especially low, with only 14.7% of pregnant women receiving the recommended three doses [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR4\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e4\\u003c/span\\u003e].\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eThe Lango sub-region, which includes Lira city, is classified as a moderate malaria transmission setting, with incidence ranging between 251 and 450 cases per 1,000 people [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR15\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e15\\u003c/span\\u003e] In Lira, 4.4% of women were recently found to have placental malaria at delivery, with varying degrees of parasitaemia [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR16\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e16\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Alarmingly, malaria prevalence in the area rose following the last IRS campaign in May 2022, this resurgence reflects broader patterns observed across Northern Uganda[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR17\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e17\\u003c/span\\u003e]\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eThis sharp increase raises concerns about the effectiveness and uptake of malaria control interventions in the area. Despite the availability of proven preventive strategies, utilization remains suboptimal; for example, only 47.05% of pregnant women in East Africa reported using ITNs well below the WHO target of 90%[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR18\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e18\\u003c/span\\u003e]. In Lira City, the post-IRS surge in prevalence suggests that low coverage and inconsistent use of interventions may be sustaining high transmission. This study examined the use of malaria control interventions among women of reproductive age in Lira City, focusing on knowledge, attitudes, practices, and barriers, to guide strategies for improved coverage and reduced malaria burden.\\u003c/p\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"MATERIALS AND METHODS\",\"content\":\"\\u003cdiv id=\\\"Sec3\\\" class=\\\"Section2\\\"\\u003e\\u003ch2\\u003eStudy Area\\u003c/h2\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eThe study was conducted in Lira City, Northern Uganda (Fig.\\u0026nbsp;\\u003cspan refid=\\\"Fig1\\\" class=\\\"InternalRef\\\"\\u003e1\\u003c/span\\u003e), a rapidly developing urban center with a population of about 249,900[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR19\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e19\\u003c/span\\u003e] The city\\u0026rsquo;s economy is mainly based on agriculture and trade. Administratively, the city is divided into Lira City East (4 wards, 23 parishes, 153 villages) and Lira City West (3 wards, 22 parishes, 83 villages). Lira has a tropical savanna climate with warm temperatures throughout the year and a bimodal rainfall pattern (April\\u0026ndash;May and August\\u0026ndash;October), receiving 1,000\\u0026ndash;1,400 mm annually. The climate is further influenced by atmospheric circulation, topography, and nearby water bodies.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eLira City lies on a predominantly flat landscape with undulating plains, intersected by streams flowing into Lake Kyoga. It comprises both urban and peri-urban areas, with uneven population distribution and some densely populated divisions. Located in the Lango Sub-region, Lira city is classified as a moderate malaria transmission area, recording 251\\u0026ndash;450 cases per 1,000 population, similar to Karamoja, Teso, Bukedi, and Busoga regions [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR20\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e20\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Studies indicate that malaria remains endemic in Lira city, with variations in transmission influenced by factors such as seasonal rainfall, vector density, and intervention coverage [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR21\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e21\\u003c/span\\u003e]\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e\\n\\u003ch3\\u003eStudy design and sampling\\u003c/h3\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eThe study targeted women of reproductive age (15\\u0026ndash;49 years) in Lira City, given their heightened vulnerability to malaria, especially during pregnancy, and their influence on family and community health. It employed a cross-sectional descriptive design, using both quantitative and qualitative methods to assess the utilization of malaria control interventions and associated factors. The sample size was determined using the Cochran formula for cross-sectional studies, defined as follows:\\u003cdiv id=\\\"Equa\\\" class=\\\"Equation\\\"\\u003e\\u003cdiv format=\\\"TEX\\\" class=\\\"mathdisplay\\\" id=\\\"FileID_Equa\\\" name=\\\"EquationSource\\\"\\u003e\\n$$\\\\:n=\\\\:\\\\frac{{Z}^{2}\\\\times\\\\:p\\\\times\\\\:\\\\left(1-p\\\\right)}{{d}^{2}}$$\\u003c/div\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eWhere: \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e is the sample size, Z is the Z-value corresponding to 95% confidence level (Z\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;1.96), \\u003cem\\u003ep\\u003c/em\\u003e is the estimated prevalence of malaria control intervention utilization (an estimate of 50% was used for maximum sample size), \\u003cem\\u003ed\\u003c/em\\u003e is the desired level of precision 5%, the sample size was adjusted for the design effect for multistage sampling by multiplying by 1.5 and considering a 10% non-response rate: thus, the final sample size was 634 participants. To obtain the required number of participants, the study employed a multistage sampling technique. Six city wards were randomly selected, from which four parishes per ward and at least three villages per parish were chosen. In each village, households were sampled systematically at five-household intervals, starting with a randomly selected household. From each household, one eligible woman of reproductive age was randomly chosen for interview. If there was more than one eligible woman in a household, one was randomly selected to participate.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003ch3\\u003eInclusion and exclusion criteria\\u003c/h3\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eWomen of childbearing age (15\\u0026ndash;49 years) residing in Lira City, who were pregnant, postpartum, or not pregnant, and who willingly consented to participate, were included in the study. Women aged 15\\u0026ndash;49 years who did not reside in Lira City, had serious health conditions preventing participation, or were still under the care of their parents were excluded from the study.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003ch3\\u003eData Collection methods\\u003c/h3\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eQuantitative data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires and qualitative data through focus group discussions (FGDs). The questionnaires for data collection, translated into Luo or English, were uploaded to the Kobo Collect Android app installed on mobile phones and administered by trained research assistants [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR22\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e22\\u003c/span\\u003e]. They were pretested in Apii village, Ayer Sub County, Kole District, to ensure reliability. To complement the questionnaire findings, three FGDs (one in Lira City West and two in City East) were conducted with 10 women of reproductive age each, drawn from different parishes and villages to ensure broad representation and deeper insights into malaria intervention utilization (ITNs, IPTs, IRS).\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003ch3\\u003eData Management and Analysis\\u003c/h3\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eBefore data collection, the questionnaire was piloted in Apii village, Kole district. Restricted questions were used to minimize missing data, and all responses were processed through sorting and tabulation to check for errors. Ethical standards were strictly followed, with anonymization and informed consent ensured. Data were analyzed in STATA v18 at three levels: univariable, bivariable, and multivariate. Descriptive statistics summarized knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and utilization of ITNs, IPTs, and IRS. Chi-square tests identified factors associated with utilization, and variables with p\\u0026thinsp;\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.2 were included in multivariate logistic regression, with p\\u0026thinsp;\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.05 considered significant. Qualitative data from FGDs were coded, categorized into themes, and triangulated with quantitative findings for comprehensive analysis.\\u003c/p\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"Results\",\"content\":\"\\u003cdiv id=\\\"Sec9\\\" class=\\\"Section2\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003ch2\\u003eSocio-demographic Characteristics\\u003c/h2\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eThe study achieved a response rate of 99.2%, with 629 participants. Table \\u003cspan class=\\\"InternalRef\\\"\\u003e1\\u003c/span\\u003e summarizes their demographic and socio-economic characteristics. Most respondents were aged 21\\u0026ndash;30 years (42.4%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;267) or 31\\u0026ndash;40 years (36.1%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;227). Nearly half (49%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;308) reported a monthly household income below 100,000 UGX, and 52.8% (\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;332) had fewer than five household members. A majority (65.7%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;413) had two or fewer children. In terms of education, 45.8% (\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;288) had secondary education, 29.7% (\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;187) had only primary education, and 5.7% (\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;36) had no formal education. Most participants were married (75.2%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;473). Self-employment was the most common occupation (49.9%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;314), followed by farming (36.7%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;231). Most lived in permanent housing (64.9%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;408) and resided in urban areas (64.2%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;404). The dominant religious affiliations were Protestant (42.4%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;267) and Catholic (36.9%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;232)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003ctable id=\\\"Tab1\\\" border=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003ccaption language=\\\"En\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionNumber\\\"\\u003eTable 1\\u003c/div\\u003e\\n \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionContent\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSocio-demographic Characteristics of Study Participants (N\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;629)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/div\\u003e\\n \\u003c/caption\\u003e\\n \\u003cthead\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eVariables\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNumber\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePercent\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003c/thead\\u003e\\n \\u003ctbody\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eAge in years\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;=20\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e59\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e9.4\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e21\\u0026ndash;30\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e267\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e42.4\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e31\\u0026ndash;40\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e227\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e36.1\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eAbove 40\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e76\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e12.1\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eAverage household income per month (UGX)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;=100000\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e308\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e49.0\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e100001\\u0026ndash;200000\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e149\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e23.7\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eAbove 200000\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e172\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e27.3\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eHousehold size\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e332\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e52.8\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e5+\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e297\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e47.2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNumber of children\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;=2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e413\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e65.7\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eabove2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e216\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e34.3\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eEducation level\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNone\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e36\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e5.7\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePrimary\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e187\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e29.7\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSecondary\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e288\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e45.8\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eTertiary\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e118\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e18.8\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eMarital status\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eDivorced\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e81\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e12.9\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eMarried\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e473\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e75.2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSingle\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e55\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e8.7\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eWidowed\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e20\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e3.2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eOccupation\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eCivil Servant\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e55\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e8.7\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eFarming\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e231\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e36.7\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eOthers Specify\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e16\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e2.5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSelf-Employment\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e314\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e49.9\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eStudent\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e13\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e2.1\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eType of housing\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePermanent\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e408\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e64.9\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSemi-permanent\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e168\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e26.7\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eTemporary\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e53\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e8.4\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eCurrent place of residence\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePeri urban\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e225\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e35.8\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eUrban\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e404\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e64.2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eReligious affiliation\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eCatholics\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e232\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e36.9\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eMuslim\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e19\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e3.0\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSDA\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e22\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e3.5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePentecostals\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e89\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e14.1\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eProtestants\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e267\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e42.4\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tbody\\u003e\\n \\u003c/table\\u003e\\n\\u003c/div\\u003e\\n\\u003ch3\\u003eLevel of utilization of ITNs, IPTs and IRS\\u003c/h3\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eFigure \\u003cspan class=\\\"InternalRef\\\"\\u003e2\\u003c/span\\u003e presents the utilization of ITNs, IPTs and IRS among women of reproductive age in Lira City. The results indicate high utilization of Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs), with 529 (84.1%) of respondents reporting use, suggesting that ITNs remain the most widely adopted malaria prevention method among the population. In contrast, the uptake of Intermittent Preventive Treatment in pregnancy (IPT) was moderate, with 428 (68.0%) reporting utilization, while Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) was the least used, with only 206 (32.8%) of respondents indicating that their households had received spraying. The overall trend points to a preference for individual or household-controlled prevention methods like ITNs over community-based interventions like IRS.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eIn terms of the level of utilization, a significant proportion 280 (44.52%) of respondents reported using two prevention methods, while 153 (24.32%) had used one method, and 150 (23.85%) had used three methods. Only a small percentage 46 (7.31%) reported never using any of the three malaria prevention measures.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cdiv id=\\\"Sec11\\\" class=\\\"Section2\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003ch2\\u003eParticipants Knowledge Towards Utilization of ITNS, IPTS and IRS\\u003c/h2\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eTable \\u003cspan class=\\\"InternalRef\\\"\\u003e2\\u003c/span\\u003e summarizes participants\\u0026apos; knowledge and use of malaria prevention methods. The most frequently mentioned methods were indoor residual spraying (IRS) (32.8%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;590) and use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) (32.3%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;582), followed by intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) (19.3%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;347) and clearing stagnant water (14.5%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;261). Only 0.3% (\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;5) reported no knowledge of malaria prevention methods. The majority (90.9%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;572) learned about these methods from health workers, while smaller proportions cited the media (5.6%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;35) or community sources such as meetings, friends, or family (1.4%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;9 each). Most participants (85.2%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;536) reported having received education on the importance of IPTp during pregnancy.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eRegarding treatment-seeking behavior, 88.1% (\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;554) said they would seek care at a health facility, 11.4% (\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;72) at a pharmacy, and only 0.5% (\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;3) considered traditional healers. Overall, the findings indicate substantial awareness of malaria prevention and treatment methods, with IRS and ITNs being the most recognized strategies and health workers serving as the primary source of information.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003ctable id=\\\"Tab2\\\" border=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003ccaption language=\\\"En\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionNumber\\\"\\u003eTable 2\\u003c/div\\u003e\\n \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionContent\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eKnowledge and Utilization of Malaria Prevention and Treatment Methods Among Women of Reproductive Age in Lira City\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/div\\u003e\\n \\u003c/caption\\u003e\\n \\u003cthead\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eVariable\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNumber\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePercent\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003c/thead\\u003e\\n \\u003ctbody\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eMethods to prevent malaria (Multiple response)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eIRS\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e590\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e32.78\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eTaking IPT\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e347\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e19.28\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eClearing stagnant water\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e261\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e14.50\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eBed nets\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e582\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e32.33\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eDon\\u0026rsquo;t know\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.28\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eOthers\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e15\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.83\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eWhere you first learnt about these methods\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eCommunity meetings\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e9\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.4\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eFriends/Family\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e9\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.4\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eHealth workers\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e572\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e90.9\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eMedia (TV, Radio, Newspaper)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e35\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e5.6\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eOther\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.6\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.6\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eThink ITNs help prevent malaria\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e20\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e3.2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e609\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e96.8\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eIPTs reduces malaria risk in pregnant women\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e29\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e4.6\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e600\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e95.4\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eEver been educated on the importance of IPT during pregnancy\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e93\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e14.8\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e536\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e85.2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eWhat do you do if you suspect that you or someone else has malaria\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eBuy over-the-counter medication\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e69\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e11.0\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eGo to a health facility\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e547\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e87.0\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eOther (specify)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eTake traditional medicine\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e12\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.9\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eKnow where to seek treatment if you or family member gets sick\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eHealth facility\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e554\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e88.1\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePharmacy\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e72\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e11.4\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eTraditional healer\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e3\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tbody\\u003e\\n \\u003c/table\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eThe qualitative findings revealed varying levels of knowledge and awareness of malaria control interventions among participants, with ITNs emerging as the most commonly recognized preventive method. However, very few have a deep understanding of IPT\\u0026rsquo;s purpose beyond Antenatal care visit (ANC).\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eA significant number of respondents demonstrated a basic understanding of the role ITNs play in malaria prevention, particularly in protecting against mosquito bites. However, some expressed doubts about malaria control citing concerns that they still get sick despite using nets and taking hospital prescribed medications.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Without net we wouldn\\u0026rsquo;t sleep. Our place has a lot of mosquitoes and I use it because I know its benefit.\\u0026rdquo; (R31)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Nets have saved our children from mosquito bites and how I wish they would be distributed frequently.\\u0026rdquo; (R32)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Nets are very good and I used to sleep with a lot of peace before my net was torn, but now mosquitoes still bite me because it has holes.\\u0026rdquo; (R37)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I don\\u0026rsquo;t have any problem sleeping under a net. The only problem is laziness to tie it, especially after washing. You find that I can take three to four days before hanging it again after washing.\\u0026rdquo; (R34)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I don\\u0026rsquo;t use a net because it makes me experience difficulties in breathing.\\u0026rdquo; (R7)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePersistent misconceptions coexisted with biomedical knowledge in regards to malaria for instances: \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Malaria is also caused by eating mangoes in the morning\\u0026rdquo;\\u003c/em\\u003e (R3); \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Malaria is caused by dirty water around homes as it keeps mosquitoes\\u0026rdquo;\\u003c/em\\u003e (R21);\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;To me, I think sometimes it\\u0026rsquo;s caused by witchcraft. Like for my case, in the last pregnancy, each and every time I would be sick with malaria, but when I gave birth, it stopped and I strongly believe it was my co-wife working on me.\\u0026rdquo; (R39)\\u003c/em\\u003e and \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Sometimes malaria appears to be demonic when you have little money, everyone at home may fall sick\\u0026rdquo;\\u003c/em\\u003e (R3). These testimonies indicate that cultural and spiritual beliefs continue to influence perceptions and behaviors.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSeveral respondents voiced concerns regarding the practicality and perceived effectiveness of ITNs, especially when damaged or during the hot season when sleeping under a net becomes uncomfortable. These insights underscore the limitations of ITN use in real-world settings, where behavioral and environmental factors affect compliance, thereby reducing their effectiveness.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNotably, the theme also uncovered significant gaps in knowledge and widespread misconceptions surrounding Intermittent Preventive Treatment in pregnancy (IPTp). Despite being a cornerstone of malaria prevention in pregnancy, IPTp was poorly understood by many respondents. This qualitative finding supports the study\\u0026rsquo;s quantitative results, which revealed that knowledge about IPT was significantly associated with greater utilization. While some women were aware that they received Fansidar (Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine) during antenatal visits, they lacked a clear understanding of its purpose as testified by the following narratives.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I thought Fansidar was just for treating malaria, not prevention, but even after taking it, I still got sick when I was pregnant.\\u0026rdquo; (R9)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;They always give us red and white drug to help the baby make blood. I\\u0026rsquo;m not sure whether that same drug also controls malaria. Sometimes they give us drugs without telling us the use, but they only tell you this is to help the baby and this is for you and how to take.\\u0026rdquo; (R25)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I don\\u0026rsquo;t know any drug used for malaria control.\\u0026rdquo; (R33)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I guess Fansidar (IPTs) could be in the drug shops, but since I don\\u0026rsquo;t have much knowledge about its role in malaria control, I have never bothered to ask.\\u0026rdquo; (R39)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I don\\u0026rsquo;t know whether there is any drug to prevent malaria apart from the one they give us during ANC.\\u0026rdquo; (R24).\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eIn relation to Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS), participants acknowledged its effectiveness in killing mosquitoes and other nuisance insects; however, its acceptance was not uniform. A strong dislike for the odor of the spray, coupled with concerns about potential side effects (including unusual culturally rooted fears such as perceived effects on \\u0026quot;manhood\\u0026quot;), highlights a significant communication gap regarding the safety and benefits of IRS. These knowledge and attitude gaps not only hinder the acceptance of IRS but also illustrate the need for community engagement to clarify the benefits and dispel myths. This is narrative is supported by participants quotation below.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;IRS, prevents and kills the mosquitoes but me I don\\u0026rsquo;t like the smell of the drug and last time I only sprayed the Kitchen because LC1 told us if you don\\u0026rsquo;t spray your house you will be arrested\\u0026rdquo;(R8).\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;If possible the drug for IRS should be without smell because some of us didn\\u0026rsquo;t spray our house because the smell irritates\\u0026rdquo; (R7).\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eThe sensory discomfort and distrust towards individuals tasked with spraying often based on personal reputation or suspected motives, creates fear and resistance to public health interventions. This mistrust reduces community compliance, even among those who understand the protective benefits of IRS.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I did not spray my house last time because I didn\\u0026rsquo;t trust the person who was spraying people\\u0026rsquo;s houses. She has a bad heart and I thought she would over spray my house and the drug would kill me. They should always select good people to do the work\\u0026rdquo; (R25).\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Some people use it for a wrong purpose for killing human where they pretend to have sprayed their house and yet they alliance with people spraying and keep the drug for another purpose\\u0026rdquo; (R3).\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eAttitude Towards Utilization of ITNS, IPTS and IRS among Women of Reproductive Age in Lira City\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eTable \\u003cspan class=\\\"InternalRef\\\"\\u003e3\\u003c/span\\u003e presents the attitudes of women of reproductive age in Lira City towards the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp), and indoor residual spraying (IRS). Overall, participants showed positive attitudes, with mean scores ranging from 4.27 to 4.41, indicating strong agreement regarding the effectiveness and safety of these methods. A majority of women agreed or strongly agreed that IRS is a good practice for malaria prevention (85.6%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;538), and 98.1% (\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;617) believed ITNs are effective. Similarly, 94.0% (\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;591) agreed that taking IPTp during pregnancy is necessary, and 94.2% (\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;592) believed IPTp is safe for pregnant women. Most participants (97.8%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;615) felt comfortable sleeping under ITNs nightly, and 98.4% (\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;619) believed ITNs reduce mosquito bites. Additionally, 91.9% (\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;578) were comfortable with IRS in their homes, and 99.3% (\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;624) would recommend ITNs to others. The overall mean attitude score was 4.34 (SD\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;0.67), reflecting a strong positive perception of malaria prevention practices\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003ctable id=\\\"Tab3\\\" border=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003ccaption language=\\\"En\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionNumber\\\"\\u003eTable 3\\u003c/div\\u003e\\n \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionContent\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eAttitude Towards Utilization of ITNS, IPTS and IRS\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/div\\u003e\\n \\u003c/caption\\u003e\\n \\u003cthead\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colspan=\\\"2\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSA\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colspan=\\\"2\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eA\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colspan=\\\"2\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNS\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colspan=\\\"2\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eD\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colspan=\\\"2\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSD\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eMean\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSD\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003c/thead\\u003e\\n \\u003ctbody\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eItems\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003eN\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e%\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003eN\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e%\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e%\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e%\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003eN\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e%\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eI feel that the IRS is a good practice for preventing malaria in my home\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e376\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e59.8\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e162\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e25.8\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e29\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e4.6\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e39\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e6.2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e23\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e3.7\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e4.32\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.06\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eUsing insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) is an effective way to prevent malaria in my household.\\u0026quot;\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e270\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e42.9\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e347\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e55.2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.1\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e3\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.3\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e4.40\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.57\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eI think taking IPT during pregnancy is necessary to prevent malaria\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e242\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e38.5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e349\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e55.5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e31\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e4.9\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e6\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.9\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e4.31\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.62\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eI believe IPTs are safe for pregnant women\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e250\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e39.8\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e342\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e54.4\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e34\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e5.4\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.3\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e4.33\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.61\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eI feel comfortable sleeping under an ITN every night\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e252\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e40.1\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e363\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e57.7\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.3\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e9\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.4\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e3\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e4.35\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.62\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eI think ITNs are effective in reducing mosquitoes bites\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e243\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e38.6\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e376\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e59.8\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e7\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.1\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e3\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.0\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e4.37\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.53\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eI am comfortable with my house being sprayed with IRS for malaria prevention\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e266\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e42.3\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e312\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e49.6\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e16\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e2.5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e22\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e3.5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e13\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e2.1\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e4.27\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.84\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eI would you recommend others to use ITNs for malaria prevention\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e262\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e41.7\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e362\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e57.6\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e4\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.6\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.0\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e4.41\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.51\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eAverage\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003e4.34\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003e0.67\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tbody\\u003e\\n \\u003c/table\\u003e\\n\\u003c/div\\u003e\\n\\u003cdiv id=\\\"Sec12\\\" class=\\\"Section2\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003ch2\\u003ePerception Towards Utilization of ITNS, IPTS and IRS\\u003c/h2\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eTable \\u003cspan class=\\\"InternalRef\\\"\\u003e4\\u003c/span\\u003e presents the respondents\\u0026rsquo; perception toward the utilization of ITNs, IPTs, and IRS for malaria prevention. A majority of women (61.5%, n\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;387) believed that IRS is safe for their households, and most (91.9%, n\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;578) agreed that indoor spraying with insecticides helps reduce malaria transmission. Regarding concerns about IRS, the most frequently reported issue was the unpleasant odor or discomfort caused by the insecticide (51.7%, n\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;325), followed by concerns about safety (21.9%, n\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;138) and effectiveness (17.3%, n\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;109). When using ITNs, almost all women (98.4%, n\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;619) reported a reduction in mosquito bites, and 96.8%, (n\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;609) believed that ITNs help prevent malaria. Additionally, 95.4% (n\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;600) believed that IPT effectively reduces malaria risk in pregnant women. The main concerns regarding ITN use were safety (45.3%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;285), accessibility (31.5%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;198), and comfort (17.2%, \\u003cem\\u003en\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;108). these findings indicate a generally positive perception of ITNs and IRS, although concerns related to comfort, accessibility, and safety persist. Overall, these findings indicate a generally positive perception of ITNs and IRS, although concerns related to comfort, accessibility and safety persist.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003ctable id=\\\"Tab4\\\" border=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003ccaption language=\\\"En\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionNumber\\\"\\u003eTable 4\\u003c/div\\u003e\\n \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionContent\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePerception Towards Utilization of ITNS, IPTS and IRS among participants\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/div\\u003e\\n \\u003c/caption\\u003e\\n \\u003cthead\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eVariable\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNumber\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePercent\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eCost\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e44\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e7.0\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003c/thead\\u003e\\n \\u003ctbody\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eMain concerns about using ITNs\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eAccessibility\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e198\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e31.5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eComfort\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e108\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e17.2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eCost\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e27\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e4.3\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eOther\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e11\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.7\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSafety\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e285\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e45.3\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eBelieve IRS is safe for your household\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e242\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e38.5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e387\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e61.5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eBelieve IRS reduce malaria transmission\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e51\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e8.1\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e578\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e91.9\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eMain concerns about the IRS\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tbody\\u003e\\n \\u003ctbody\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eEffectiveness\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e109\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e17.3\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eOther\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e13\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e2.1\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSafety\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e138\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e21.9\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSmell/Discomfort\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e325\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e51.7\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNoticed any reduction in mosquito bites or malaria cases when using ITN\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e10\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.6\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e619\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e98.4\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eIPTs effectively reduce malaria risk in pregnant women\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e29\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e4.6\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e600\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e95.4\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tbody\\u003e\\n \\u003c/table\\u003e\\n\\u003c/div\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eAlthough the quantitative data indicates strong reported belief in the effectiveness and safety of ITNs, IPTp, and IRS, the qualitative findings uncover deeper perceptions of discomfort, mistrust, and limited understanding that challenge consistent utilization.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eMany respondents expressed appreciation for ITNs and perceived it as good, but their continued use was challenged by perceived discomfort and reduced effectiveness. One participant shared:\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Without net we wouldn\\u0026rsquo;t sleep. Our place has a lot of mosquitoes and I use it because I know its benefit.\\u0026rdquo; (R31).\\u003c/em\\u003e Another respondent said;\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Nets have saved our children from mosquito bites and how I wish they would be distributed frequently.\\u0026rdquo; (R32)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Net is good, it prevents mosquito bites, but the challenge comes when weather changes, especially during dry season. It can be too hot, so in most cases we are forced to remove it.\\u0026rdquo; (R4)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eNotably, the qualitative finding uncovered significant gaps in knowledge and widespread misconceptions surrounding Intermittent Preventive Treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) which affects perception. For example, R4 shared,\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;The white drugs they give us during antenatal care visit have a very strong smell. I don\\u0026rsquo;t like it and I remembered taking it once and it made me unwell, so I stopped taking it much as they emphasize you should take it for the good of the baby.\\u0026rdquo;\\u003c/em\\u003e Similarly,\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003ePerceptions of Intermittent Preventive Treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) also revealed significant gaps in understanding. Although Fansidar (Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine) is routinely administered during antenatal care, many women lacked clarity about its preventive role.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eR25 noted, \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;IPTs (Fansidar) is generally not known for control of malaria but we use it during pregnancy because they give it to you from the hospital,\\u0026rdquo;\\u003c/em\\u003e highlighting passive acceptance without informed consent.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eOthers expressed outright unfamiliarity: \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I do not know any drug pregnant women use to control malaria\\u0026hellip;\\u0026rdquo; (R24), \\u0026ldquo;I\\u0026rsquo;ve never heard of IPTs before. I don\\u0026rsquo;t know if I\\u0026rsquo;ve used them\\u0026rdquo; (R7), and \\u0026ldquo;I thought Fansidar was just for treating malaria, not control\\u0026hellip;\\u0026rdquo; (R9).\\u003c/em\\u003e These statements underscore a widespread perception that IPTp is either ineffective or misunderstood, which may hinder adherence.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eNegative experiences with IPTp further shaped perceptions; for examples\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;The white drugs they give us during antenatal care visits have a very strong smell. I don\\u0026rsquo;t like it, and I remembered taking it once and it made me unwell, so I stopped taking it much as they emphasize you should take it for the good of the baby.\\u0026rdquo; (R4)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;The drugs made me feel sick, all the time you feel nausea and because of this I avoided taking it again.\\u0026rdquo; (R11)\\u003c/em\\u003e while some respondents expressed preference for familiar treatments:\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I only know Cartem for malaria, not this IPT drug you\\u0026apos;re talking about.\\u0026rdquo;(R3)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I have never known about drugs that are used to control malaria apart from Cartem.\\u0026rdquo; (R2)\\u003c/em\\u003e. Such discomfort with the medicine and lack of trust in it make people less willing to use it.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eCommunity responses to IRS revealed a complex interplay between acknowledged benefits and deeply rooted concerns. Narratives highlighted widespread discomfort with the odor of the insecticide, apprehensions about health risks, and culturally embedded fears particularly regarding male reproductive health. Additionally, rumors linking IRS to unintended consequences, such as bedbug infestations and soil degradation, further undermined trust. As illustrated by the following narratives\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Spraying house reduces mosquitoes but only for a short while compared to how nets protect, but also spraying has more risk because the drug used is not good for our health and our animals. A reason they told us last time that after mopping the house we have to pour the water in the toilet.\\u0026rdquo; (R32)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;The drug can even affect the soil by killing small organisms in it resulting in poor crop yield.\\u0026rdquo; (R310)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I didn\\u0026rsquo;t spray because I feared it would harm my husband who is asthmatic.\\u0026rdquo; (R16)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;The drug they use for spraying is not safe at all, that\\u0026rsquo;s why in the last exercise I didn\\u0026rsquo;t spray my house.\\u0026rdquo; (R29)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eSome perceptions were shaped by rumors and fears:\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I\\u0026rsquo;m not okay with spraying my house because we have heard that the drug makes men powerless and that means in future they will not be able to produce, and for me I have only boys children so I couldn\\u0026rsquo;t carry out the exercise in the previous IRS.\\u0026rdquo; (R39)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Spraying the house caused bedbugs, I witnessed in the last IRS exercise in my house and I was not the only one who experienced it, others were complaining too.\\u0026rdquo; (R24)\\u003c/em\\u003e while another \\u003cem\\u003erefused IRS due to rumors: \\u0026ldquo;I heard IRS brought bed bugs\\u0026rdquo; (R27).\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cdiv id=\\\"Sec13\\\" class=\\\"Section2\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003ch2\\u003eFactors Associated with Utilization of ITNs, IPTs and IRS\\u003c/h2\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eTable\\u0026nbsp;\\u003cspan class=\\\"InternalRef\\\"\\u003e5\\u003c/span\\u003e presents the bivariate analysis of factors influencing the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp), and indoor residual spraying (IRS) among women of reproductive age in Lira City. The analysis shows that several sociodemographic and contextual factors significantly affect utilization.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eAge was a significant factor, with women aged 21\\u0026ndash;30 and 31\\u0026ndash;40 more likely to use these interventions than those aged\\u0026thinsp;\\u0026le;\\u0026thinsp;20 or \\u0026gt;\\u0026thinsp;40 years (\\u0026chi;\\u0026sup2;=22.83, df\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;3, \\u003cem\\u003ep\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001). Marital status also played a role\\u0026mdash;married women showed higher utilization than single, divorced, or widowed women (\\u0026chi;\\u0026sup2;=25.82, df\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;3, \\u003cem\\u003ep\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001). Similarly, women living in permanent housing had higher utilization rates compared to those in semi-permanent or temporary structures (\\u0026chi;\\u0026sup2;=9.78, df\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;1, \\u003cem\\u003ep\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;0.008).\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eThe presence of community myths about malaria significantly influenced uptake; women in communities without such myths were more likely to utilize interventions (\\u0026chi;\\u0026sup2;=11.36, df\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;1, \\u003cem\\u003ep\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001).\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePreferred treatment location was also important those who sought care at hospitals or clinics had higher utilization (\\u0026chi;\\u0026sup2;=19.12, df\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;2, \\u003cem\\u003ep\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001).\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eWomen who received encouragement from community leaders were more likely to use these interventions (\\u0026chi;\\u0026sup2;=3.96, df\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;1 \\u003cem\\u003ep\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;0.047), as were those living within 1\\u0026ndash;5 km of a health facility (\\u0026chi;\\u0026sup2;=6.47, df\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;2 \\u003cem\\u003ep\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;0.039). Notably, women who did not report challenges using bed nets had significantly higher utilization rates (\\u0026chi;\\u0026sup2;=20.77, \\u003cem\\u003ep\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001).\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eMoreover, women who had been educated about the importance of IPTp during pregnancy (\\u0026chi;\\u0026sup2;=24.70, df\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;1, \\u003cem\\u003ep\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001) and those who believed that IRS reduces malaria transmission (\\u0026chi;\\u0026sup2;=7.75, df\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;1, \\u003cem\\u003ep\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;0.005) were significantly more likely to use these malaria prevention methods\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003ctable id=\\\"Tab5\\\" border=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003ccaption language=\\\"En\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionNumber\\\"\\u003eTable 5\\u003c/div\\u003e\\n \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionContent\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eBivariate Analysis of Factors Associated with the Utilization of ITNs, IPTp, and IRS Among Women of Reproductive Age in Lira City\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/div\\u003e\\n \\u003c/caption\\u003e\\n \\u003cthead\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colspan=\\\"3\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eUtilization\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eVariable\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo (%)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes (%)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026chi;\\u0026sup2;(df)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ep-value\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSociodemographic factors\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003c/thead\\u003e\\n \\u003ctbody\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eAge in years\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;=20\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e20 (10.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e39 (9.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e22.83(3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e21\\u0026ndash;30\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e82 (41.2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e185 (43.0)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e31\\u0026ndash;40\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e56 (28.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e171 (39.8)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eabove 40\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e41 (20.6)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e35 (8.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eAverage household Income\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;=100000\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e90 (45.2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e218 (50.7)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.96(2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.374\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e100001\\u0026ndash;200000\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e53 (26.6)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e96 (22.3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eabove 200000\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e56 (28.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e116 (27.0)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eHousehold size\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;5\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e102 (51.3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e230 (53.5)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.272(1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.602\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e5+\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e97 (48.7)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e200 (46.5)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNumber of children\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;=2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e123 (61.8)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e290 (67.4)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.91(1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.166\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eAbove2\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e76 (38.2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e140 (32.6)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eEducation level\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNone\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e15 (7.5)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e21 (4.9)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e5.81(3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.121\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePrimary\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e65 (32.7)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e122 (28.4)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSecondary\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e78 (39.2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e210 (48.8)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eTertiary\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e41 (20.6)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e77 (17.9)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eMarital status\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eDivorced\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e29 (14.6)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e52 (12.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e25.82(3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eMarried\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e128 (64.3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e345 (80.2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSingle\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e31 (15.6)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e24 (5.6)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eWidowed\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e11 (5.5)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e9 (2.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eOccupation\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eCivil Servant\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e15 (7.5)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e40 (9.3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e7.02(4)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.135\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eFarming\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e68 (34.2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e163 (37.9)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eOthers Specify\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e4 (2.0)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e12 (2.8%)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSelf-Employment\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e104 (52.3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e210 (48.8%)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eStudent\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e8 (4.0)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e5 (1.2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eType of housing do you live in\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePermanent\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e116 (58.3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e292 (67.9)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e9.78(2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.008*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSemi-permanent\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e57 (28.6)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e111 (25.8)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eTemporary\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e26 (13.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e27 (6.3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePlace of residence\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePeri urban\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e75 (37.7)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e150 (34.9)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.466(1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.495\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eUrban\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e124 (62.3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e280 (65.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eReligious affiliation\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eCatholics\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e71 (35.7)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e161 (37.4)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e3.55(4)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.470\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eMuslim\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e9 (4.5)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e10 (2.3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSDA\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e5 (2.5)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e17 (4.0)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePentecostals\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e26 (13.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e63 (14.7)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eProtestants\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e88 (44.2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e179 (41.6)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eCommunity factors\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eMyths about malaria in your community\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e138(69.3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e350(81.4)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e11.36(1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e61 (30.7)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e80 (18.6)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eWomen have the autonomy to make decisions regarding malaria\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e22 (11.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e66 (15.3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e2.08(1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.149\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e177(88.9)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e364(84.7)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePlace of preference to seek treatment\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eBoth\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e20 (10.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e10 (2.3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e19.12(2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eHospital /clinic\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e171(85.9)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e391(90.9)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eTraditional medicine\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e8 (4.0)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e29 (6.7)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eLeaders encourage or provide guidance\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e21 (10.6)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e26 (6.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e3.96(1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.047*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e178(89.4)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e403(93.9)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eAttended a malaria education session\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e69 (34.7)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e162(37.8)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.56(1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.455\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e130(65.3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e267(62.2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eCommunity health workers visit your household to provide information on malaria\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e45 (22.6)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e79 (18.5)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.48(1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.224\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e154(77.4)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e349(81.5)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eDistance to nearest health facility that provides malaria prevention tools\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1-5km\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e95 (47.7)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e232(54.0)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e6.47(2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.039*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;1km\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e82 (41.2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e134(31.2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026gt;5km\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e22 (11.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e64 (14.9)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eDo you face challenges in using insecticide-treated bed nets\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e130(65.3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e352(81.9)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e20.77(1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e69 (34.7)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e78 (18.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003ePersonal factors\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eThink ITNs help prevent malaria\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e9 (4.5)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e11 (2.6)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.71(1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.192\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e190 (95.5)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e419 (97.4)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eEducated IPT importance during pregnancy\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e50 (25.1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e43 (10.0)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e24.70(1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e149 (74.9)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e387 (90.0)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eBelieve the IRS is safe for household use\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e71 (35.7)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e171 (39.8)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.96(1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.327\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e128 (64.3)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e259 (60.2)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eBelieve IRS helps reduce malaria transmission\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e25 (12.6)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e26 (6.0)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e7.75(1)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.005*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e174 (87.4)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e404 (94.0)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tbody\\u003e\\n \\u003c/table\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003c/div\\u003e\\n\\u003cdiv id=\\\"Sec14\\\" class=\\\"Section2\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003ch2\\u003e\\u0026chi;\\u0026sup2;=Chi square Statistics; * Significant Variable at 0.05\\u003c/h2\\u003e\\n \\u003cdiv id=\\\"Sec15\\\" class=\\\"Section3\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003ch2\\u003eMultivariate Analysis of Factors Associated with Utilization\\u003c/h2\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eThe logistic regression analysis in Table\\u0026nbsp;\\u003cspan class=\\\"InternalRef\\\"\\u003e6\\u003c/span\\u003e identified several factors significantly associated with utilization of malaria control interventions among women of reproductive age in Lira City. These quantitative findings are supplemented by qualitative testimonies.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eIndividuals who had ever received any form of education or had specifically been educated on intermittent preventive treatment (IPT) were significantly more likely to utilize services (AOR\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;2.05, 95% CI: 1.24\\u0026ndash;3.38, p\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;0.005). Participant narratives emphasizing the role of information access reinforced this. One respondent noted,\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I got some information during pregnancy, but there\\u0026rsquo;s no regular program in our village to teach us about malaria. It\\u0026rsquo;s only the LC1 that comes around sometimes to inform us when nets are being distributed\\u0026rdquo; (R2).\\u003c/em\\u003e Another added, \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;The village health teams are there and they mainly identify pregnant mothers and direct them to attend antenatal care. They also participate in net distribution\\u0026rdquo; (R32)\\u003c/em\\u003e. However, gaps in understanding were evident: \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;No one has ever explained to me what Fansidar or other malaria drugs are used for. I just take what I\\u0026rsquo;m given at the hospital\\u0026rdquo; (R4)\\u003c/em\\u003e, and \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I thought Fansidar was just for treating malaria, not prevention\\u0026rdquo; (R9)\\u003c/em\\u003e. These insights suggest that while education improves uptake, the quality and clarity of health messaging remain critical.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eLiving in temporary housing was associated with lower odds of service utilization (AOR\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;0.38, 95% CI: 0.19\\u0026ndash;0.75, p\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;0.005). Qualitative data highlights structural challenges: \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Our house is made of mahbati (iron sheets), and there is nowhere to hang the net properly\\u0026rdquo;\\u003c/em\\u003e (R6), and maintenance issues: \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Our nets are in bad condition because it was last distributed by government in 2023. The torn ones are being used by children because they are very weak\\u0026rdquo;\\u003c/em\\u003e (R32). These statements explain why women in temporary or poorly structured homes may struggle to use ITNs consistently.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eParticipants\\u0026rsquo; narratives reveal that environmental discomfort and behavioral factors hinder utilization. For instance, \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;During the dry season like this, it\\u0026apos;s too hot under the net and I stopped using it for over a month\\u0026hellip;new nets irritate a lot\\u0026rdquo;\\u003c/em\\u003e (R9), and \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I feel suffocated when I sleep under the net. It makes breathing difficult\\u0026rdquo;\\u003c/em\\u003e (R7). Laziness in net reinstallation also affected use: \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;The only problem is laziness to tie especially after washing. You find that I can take three to four days before hanging it again\\u0026rdquo;\\u003c/em\\u003e (R34). These testimonies align with the logistic regression result that difficulties in using ITNs reduced odds of utilisation (AOR\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;0.44, 95% CI: 0.29\\u0026ndash;0.68, p\\u0026thinsp;\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001).\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eLaziness in net reinstallation also affected use: \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;The only problem is laziness to tie especially after washing. You find that I can take three to four days before hanging it again\\u0026rdquo;\\u003c/em\\u003e (R34).\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eAdditionally, logistical issues such as poor net condition and lack of replacements were common;\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Our nets are in bad condition, the torn ones are being used by children because they are very weak. We received few nets because it wasn\\u0026rsquo;t enough for everyone, and I can\\u0026rsquo;t afford to buy because it\\u0026rsquo;s very expensive\\u0026rdquo; (R32).\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eRespondents aged above 40 years and single individuals were less likely to utilize malaria control services (AOR\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;0.45, 95% CI: 0.26\\u0026ndash;0.79, p\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;0.005 and AOR\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;0.31, 95% CI: 0.16\\u0026ndash;0.59, p\\u0026thinsp;\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001, respectively). Qualitative testimonies hint at possible sociocultural influences, including mistrust and household roles; \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I didn\\u0026rsquo;t spray my house last time because I didn\\u0026rsquo;t trust the person who was spraying people\\u0026rsquo;s houses, they should always select good people\\u0026rdquo;\\u003c/em\\u003e (R25), and\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I\\u0026rsquo;ve never sprayed my house because it\\u0026rsquo;s very hard to collect things out of the house. I rely on nets instead\\u0026rdquo;\\u003c/em\\u003e (R4). These accounts illustrate that older and single women may face practical, social, or trust-related barriers that reduce participation in malaria prevention.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003ctable id=\\\"Tab6\\\" border=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003ccaption language=\\\"En\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionNumber\\\"\\u003eTable 6\\u003c/div\\u003e\\n \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionContent\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eLogistic Regression of Factors Associated with Utilization\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/div\\u003e\\n \\u003c/caption\\u003e\\n \\u003cthead\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eVariable\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eCOR (95%CI)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ep-value\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eAOR (95%CI)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ep-value\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eType of house\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/th\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003c/thead\\u003e\\n \\u003ctbody\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePermanent\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSemi-permanent\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.77(0.52\\u0026ndash;1.14)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.191\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.67(0.44\\u0026ndash;1.03)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.069\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eTemporary\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.41(0.23\\u0026ndash;0.74)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.003*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.38(0.19\\u0026ndash;0.75)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.005*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eAge in years\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;=30\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e31\\u0026ndash;40\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.56(0.84\\u0026ndash;2.90)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.155\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.34(0.88\\u0026ndash;2.05)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.171\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e40+\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.44(0.22\\u0026ndash;0.88)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.021*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.45(0.26\\u0026ndash;0.79)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.005*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eFace challenges with nets\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.42(0.29\\u0026ndash;0.61)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.44(0.29\\u0026ndash;0.68)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eEver been educated on IPT\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e3.02(1.92\\u0026ndash;4.73)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e2.05(1.24\\u0026ndash;3.38)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.005*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eDistance to the nearest facility\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;5km\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026gt;=5km\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.19(0.69\\u0026ndash;2.04)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.525\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.76(0.51\\u0026ndash;1.12)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.171\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eOccupation\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eFarming\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSelf employed\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.76(0.40\\u0026ndash;1.43)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.393\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.76(0.52\\u0026ndash;1.12)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.165\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eStudent\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.23(0.07\\u0026ndash;0.83)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.025*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.29(0.08\\u0026ndash;1.09)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.066\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eMarital status\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eMarried\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eSingle\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.43(0.21\\u0026ndash;0.38)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.019*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.31(0.16\\u0026ndash;0.59)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u0026lt;\\u0026thinsp;0.001*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eBelieve ITN helps prevent malaria\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.80(0.73\\u0026ndash;4.42)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.197\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e2.10(0.80\\u0026ndash;5.52)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.132\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eBelieve IRS helps prevent malaria\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e2.23(1.2\\u0026ndash;3.98)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.006*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.78(0.94\\u0026ndash;3.37)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.076\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eCommunity myths and conception\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNo\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e1.00\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eYes\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.51(0.36\\u0026ndash;0.76)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.001*\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.69(0.45\\u0026ndash;1.09)\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e0.114\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tbody\\u003e\\n \\u003ctfoot\\u003e\\n \\u003ctr\\u003e\\n \\u003ctd colspan=\\\"5\\\"\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e1.00\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;Reference; COR\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;Crude Odds Ratio, AOR\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;Adjusted Odds Ratio, *significant variable at 0.05\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/td\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tr\\u003e\\n \\u003c/tfoot\\u003e\\n \\u003c/table\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003c/div\\u003e\\n\\u003c/div\\u003e\\n\\u003cdiv id=\\\"Sec16\\\" class=\\\"Section2\\\"\\u003e\\n \\u003ch2\\u003eAdditional factors from FGDs\\u003c/h2\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eAlthough not all systemic factors were statistically significant, qualitative data revealed their substantial impact. Participants described irregular distribution and unreliable access to malaria control intervention:\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;I participated in the last net distribution and net was not enough for everyone\\u0026rdquo; (R7)\\u003c/em\\u003e, and\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;The government health Centre is less costly but it\\u0026rsquo;s far, and sometimes when you get there, there are no drugs\\u0026rdquo; (R8)\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;The hospital is very far, and if you go you don\\u0026rsquo;t find drugs, so I normally buy drugs from a drug shop\\u0026rdquo; (R3)\\u003c/em\\u003e, and economic constraints:\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Nets are readily available but they are expensive and we mostly rely on the ones given by government\\u0026rdquo; (R36). These factors reduce timely and consistent use of malaria prevention tools.\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eFinancial constraints were also prominent:\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Nets are readily available in supermarkets, but they are expensive and we mostly rely on the ones given by government\\u0026rdquo; (R36)\\u003c/em\\u003e, and \\u0026ldquo;\\u003cem\\u003eI normally buy drugs for malaria from a drug shop near home, and sometimes they allow us to pay in instalments\\u0026rdquo; (R3).\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eNegative experiences with malaria drugs discouraged continued use:\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;The drugs made me feel sick, I avoided taking it again\\u0026rdquo; (R11)\\u003c/em\\u003e, and \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;The white drugs they give during antenatal care visits have a very strong smell. I remembered taking it once and it made me unwell\\u0026rdquo; (R4).\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003eParticipants also described poor communication from health providers:\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Sometimes they give us drugs without telling us the use, but they only say this is to help the baby and this is for you\\u0026rdquo; (R25)\\u003c/em\\u003e, and \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;We simply take the drug without understanding, because the nurses can be tired and so rude to ask them questions\\u0026rdquo; (R26).\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n \\u003cp\\u003ePerceived inequities in intervention delivery were highlighted; \\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026ldquo;Why is it that the spraying is only done in Northern Uganda and more frequent in Lango sub-region?\\u0026rdquo; (R38)\\u003c/em\\u003e, suggesting that regional disparities may erode trust and reduce participation.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003c/div\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"Discussion\",\"content\":\"\\u003cdiv id=\\\"Sec18\\\" class=\\\"Section2\\\"\\u003e\\u003ch2\\u003eKnowledge, Attitude and Perception Towards Utilization of ITNs, IPTs and IRS\\u003c/h2\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eThe study revealed that most women possessed substantial knowledge of malaria prevention methods, particularly Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) and Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS). Health workers were the main source of information, and formal health facilities were the preferred place for treatment. This finding aligns with a study conducted in Nigeria, which reported that 90% of pregnant women had substantial knowledge of ITNs, with radio and television serving as the primary channels for malaria-related information [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR23\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e23\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Furthermore, these results support previous research highlighting the importance of health education in enhancing malaria awareness and promoting preventive behaviors [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR24\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e24\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR25\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e25\\u003c/span\\u003e] The high levels of malaria knowledge can be attributed to structured antenatal care programs, where malaria prevention is integrated into maternal healthcare services. Studies in Ethiopia and Mozambique indicate that women attending antenatal care regularly are exposed to repeated malaria prevention messaging, reinforcing their understanding[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR26\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e26\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Additionally, government-led malaria campaigns often distributed through radio, community outreach, and health worker engagement have played a significant role in increasing knowledge levels[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR27\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e27\\u003c/span\\u003e].\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eThe high mean attitude score (4.34, SD = 0.67) reflects a generally positive outlook and willingness to use malaria prevention methods. This matches findings from Ghana, where mothers displayed strong support for malaria control strategies[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR28\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e28\\u003c/span\\u003e]. The positive attitudes towards malaria prevention may be influenced by personal experiences with malaria and the cost associated with malaria treatment that drains the family resources. Women, particularly those with children, tend to perceive malaria prevention as necessary due to the experience their children had in past infection[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR28\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e28\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Additionally, Education plays a pivotal role in shaping attitudes toward health interventions. Women who have received any form of education on malaria prevention strategies are more likely to trust and adopt medical interventions. For instance, the findings revealed that women with knowledge of Intermittent Preventive Treatment (IPT) exhibited higher utilization rates compared to their counterparts who had never received any form of education. Furthermore, insights from Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) indicated that women with higher levels of education demonstrated a deeper understanding of malaria preventive measures, including the rationale behind IPT and the importance of consistent adherence. These observations underscore the transformative impact of education in enhancing health literacy and promoting proactive health-seeking behaviors among women. However, attitude alone does not guarantee utilization. Studies in Uganda and Nigeria show that logistical challenges, affordability, and inconvenience impact adherence, even when attitudes are positive [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR29\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e29\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR30\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e30\\u003c/span\\u003e]. For instance, some women understand IRS is effective but reject it due to discomfort or fear of chemical exposure. This suggests that addressing environmental and logistical barriers is just as important as improving attitudes.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eDespite high knowledge and positive attitudes, there remains a mixed perception as many women expressed concerns about comfort and safety, particularly with ITNs and IRS, which affected their consistent use. Similar findings have been documented across sub-Saharan Africa, where behavioral and environmental barriers affect intervention uptake[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR31\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e31\\u003c/span\\u003e]. The discomfort associated with ITNs in hot climates is a well-documented challenge with many households reporting heat retention and perceived side effects as key reasons for inconsistent ITN use[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR32\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e32\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Similarly, the perception of IRS as toxic often stems from inadequate communication leading to mistrust[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR33\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e33\\u003c/span\\u003e] which undermines consistent utilization. In Southwestern Uganda, many people recognized the importance of ITNs, consistent use remained low due to discomfort, perceived side effects, and family disagreements[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR30\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e30\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR2\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Similarly, a study in Nigeria confirmed that while IRS was widely accepted as effective, comfort and logistical issues could affect community acceptance[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR29\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e29\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Additionally, in Southeast Asia systematic review conducted emphasized the need to understand behavioral and environmental barriers to improve ITN and IRS utilization in malaria-endemic regions[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR31\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e31\\u003c/span\\u003e] .\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eOverall, the findings from Lira City are encouraging and suggest that women of reproductive age are well informed and generally supportive of malaria prevention strategies. However, as seen in other regions such as Ethiopia[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR33\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e33\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR34\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e34\\u003c/span\\u003e] and Mozambique[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR26\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e26\\u003c/span\\u003e], knowledge and positive attitudes do not always lead to proper practice. To bridge this gap, targeted health education and behavior change campaigns should address the specific concerns and misconceptions that hinder consistent use. Engaging trusted community health workers and integrating malaria prevention into maternal health services could further strengthen uptake. Sustained efforts that combine accurate information with practical support and culturally sensitive messaging are essential to enhance the overall effectiveness of malaria control strategies[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR27\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e27\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR35\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e35\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR36\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e36\\u003c/span\\u003e].\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e\\u003cdiv id=\\\"Sec19\\\" class=\\\"Section2\\\"\\u003e\\u003ch2\\u003eLevel of utilization of ITNs, IPTs and IRS among Women\\u003c/h2\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eThe results from both qualitative and quantitative findings show that utilization of the three malaria prevention methods vary with ITNs being widely utilized most followed by IPTs and IRS. Particularly, the findings reveal a notably high utilization of Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) among women of reproductive age in Lira City, with 84.1% reporting use, a figure that surpasses national averages according to the Uganda Malaria Indicator Survey (UMIS) of 2018–2019. This high uptake is consistent with a study done across multiple regions in Uganda where 78.2% of women surveyed used insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR37\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e37\\u003c/span\\u003e]. In Ethiopia, household ITN utilization also remains strong, with 83.5% reporting consistent use [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR38\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e38\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Similarly, in Kenya, 98.1% of household who own LLIN used them and the high utilization is attributed to mass distribution campaigns[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR39\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e39\\u003c/span\\u003e]. However, in contrast to these encouraging results, regional studies have reported lower ITN utilization, for example, 59.4% in Ethiopia [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR24\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e24\\u003c/span\\u003e], 52% in Sierra Leone[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR40\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e40\\u003c/span\\u003e], and 66.1% consistent use in Uganda despite 84% ownership [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR30\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e30\\u003c/span\\u003e]. These disparities suggest that while ownership may be widespread, actual utilization probably hinges on other factors such as education, cultural attitudes, and the effectiveness of community sensitization. The exceptional uptake in Lira City may therefore be attributed to their affordability, ease of use compared to other methods and targeted interventions efforts by government such as mass net distribution campaigns by the Ugandan Ministry of Health and partners such as the Global Fund and USAID in 2023, and the integration of ITN distribution into routine antenatal care and immunization services.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cdiv class=\\\"BlockQuote\\\"\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eIntermittent Preventive Treatment (IPT) during pregnancy also shows significant usage at 68%, indicating strong awareness and implementation of this malaria prevention strategy among women of reproductive age in Lira City. Since IPT is administered as medication during antenatal care visits, its uptake may reflect the effectiveness of health systems in encouraging preventive measures during pregnancy. The moderate adoption of IPT (68%) during pregnancy is consistent with findings from elsewhere in sub-Saharan Africa, where IPT utilization is influenced by antenatal care services and healthcare access [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR24\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e24\\u003c/span\\u003e]. While IPT uptake is generally improving, national data from Uganda \\u003cb\\u003e(\\u003c/b\\u003eUMIS 2018–2019\\u003cb\\u003e)\\u003c/b\\u003e indicates that utilization remains below the strategic targets, suggesting room for increased awareness and service expansion.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eIndoor Residual Spraying (IRS) has a notably lower adoption rate at 32.8%, with a majority (67.2%\\u003cb\\u003e)\\u003c/b\\u003e of women not using it. This is far below the WHO recommendation for implementation of IRS in areas with high malaria transmission of at least 80% household coverage to achieve effective vector control[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR41\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e41\\u003c/span\\u003e]. This finding aligns with a study conducted in Northern Uganda, which found that only one in three households preferred IRS over insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), indicating a similarly low adoption rate [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR42\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e42\\u003c/span\\u003e]. However, it contrasts sharply with findings from Zambia, where the acceptance level for IRS was high (87%), attributed to favorable timing and perceived effectiveness of the intervention [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR43\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e43\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Similarly, a study from Tororo, Uganda, reported that 79.9% of respondents expressed willingness to undergo repeat of IRS, suggesting regional variability in acceptance [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR8\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e8\\u003c/span\\u003e]. A systematic review and meta-analysis affirmed the efficacy of IRS in reducing malaria incidence but emphasized that its impact is most pronounced when household coverage exceeds 80% [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR44\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e44\\u003c/span\\u003e]. This demonstrates that while IRS has the potential to significantly curb malaria transmission, its effectiveness is heavily dependent on sufficient coverage.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eSeveral factors may contribute to the low uptake of IRS among women of reproductive age in Lira City. Misconceptions about the safety and effectiveness of IRS, along with concerns about chemical exposure, are common deterrents. Additionally, a lack of information and awareness may lead to hesitancy, especially among women who may not have full autonomy over household health decisions. This limitation, coupled with low trust in spraying programs, can hinder broader acceptance as illustrated by narratives. These findings highlight that knowledge and positive attitudes alone are not always enough to ensure consistent use of malaria prevention methods. Addressing barriers related to comfort, perception, and accessibility is essential to improving the effectiveness of these interventions.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eOverall, the low IRS utilization compared to ITNs suggests barriers to IRS implementation, similar to trends observed in other regions. Studies indicate that IRS acceptance depends heavily on cultural perceptions, accessibility, and trust in spraying programs[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR26\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e26\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR43\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e43\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Additionally, IRS is most effective when mosquitoes rest indoors, meaning its impact can be limited where housing structures do not support residual spraying[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR41\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e41\\u003c/span\\u003e]. A study conducted in Tanzania demonstrated that combining IRS with ITNs significantly reduced malaria transmission, indicating that integrated promotion of both interventions could enhance protection[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR45\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e45\\u003c/span\\u003e].\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e\\u003cdiv id=\\\"Sec20\\\" class=\\\"Section2\\\"\\u003e\\u003ch2\\u003eFactors associated with utilization of ITNs, IPTs and IRS among women\\u003c/h2\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eIndividuals who had received any form of education related to IPT were significantly more likely to utilize services. Qualitative findings further revealed that women with formal education demonstrated a deeper understanding of IPT although formal education did not emerge as a statistically significant factor in the quantitative analysis. These results align with previous research emphasizing the critical role of awareness and health education in promoting the adoption of preventive health measures[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR46\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e46\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR47\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e47\\u003c/span\\u003e]. For instance, a study conducted in Burundi found that education was a significant predictor of IPT utilization and was strongly associated with receiving the optimal dose among pregnant women [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR48\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e48\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Similarly, research from Nigeria indicated that pregnant women with secondary or tertiary education were 8.3 times more likely to use IPT compared to those without formal education [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR49\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e49\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Furthermore, education was found to play a critical role in improving IPT uptake [\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR50\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e50\\u003c/span\\u003e]. These findings highlight the importance of health education programs in increasing IPT coverage and reducing malaria-related complications. Educated individuals are more likely to understand the benefits of ITNs, IPT, and IRS, leading to higher compliance with malaria prevention strategies. This corresponds with other studies, which emphasize that knowledge gaps, misconceptions, and lack of education are major barriers to ITN and IRS utilization[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR51\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e51\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR38\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e38\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Increasing community awareness and behavioral change communication strategies may further improve adoption of these interventions[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR36\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e36\\u003c/span\\u003e]\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eAge was another influential factor, with individuals over 40 years being less likely to utilize malaria prevention services compared to those aged 30 years or younger (AOR = 0.45, p = 0.005). This finding supports the Mozambique study, which found that older age groups were more resistant to ITN adoption, possibly due to habitual attitudes or a lower perceived risk of malaria.[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR36\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e36\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Additionally, younger mothers are more consistent in ITN use[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR23\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e23\\u003c/span\\u003e], reinforcing the trend of lower malaria prevention uptake among older populations. This could be due to younger individuals being more receptive to public health campaigns and also surrounded by fear of malaria as being a young mother. Older individuals may perceive malaria as less of a threat due to lifelong exposure and personal coping mechanisms. Also, barriers related to mobility or accessibility may affect older populations.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eChallenges faced while using bed nets was significantly associated with lower utilization (AOR = 0.44, p \\u0026lt; 0.001). This highlights the practical difficulties individuals experience in consistently using ITNs, such as discomfort, damage to the nets, or misconceptions about their effectiveness. This result align with other studies that identified barriers to ITN use such as poor ventilation, unpleasant odor, undesirable color, and discomfort while sleeping[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR52\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e52\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR36\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e36\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR53\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e53\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR25\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e25\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Addressing these issues through community engagement, improved net designs, and education could enhance ITN adoption.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eSingle individuals were significantly less likely to utilize malaria prevention services compared to married ones. This could be due to household responsibility where married individuals, especially those with children, might prioritize malaria prevention for their families. It could also be to social support where married women may receive encouragement from spouses, family, or antenatal care programs, leading to higher uptake of control interventions This finding conforms with studies that support the notion that married women or those living with partners are more likely to use ITNs due to family responsibilities and awareness from antenatal care services[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR23\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e23\\u003c/span\\u003e][\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR32\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e32\\u003c/span\\u003e].\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eIndividuals living in temporary housing were less likely to utilize malaria prevention services. This suggests that those in less stable living conditions may face challenges such as limited access to health programs, difficulty maintaining ITNs properly, and consequently, greater exposure to mosquito breeding sites. This is consistent with a study conducted in Mozambique, which found that poorer households with access to ITNs were more likely to use them highlighting the crucial role of economic stability and resource availability[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR36\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e36\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Similarly, higher income levels have been shown to facilitate ITN acquisition and utilization, reinforcing the idea that financial constraints limit access to preventive interventions[\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR32\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e32\\u003c/span\\u003e]. Since IRS is most effective where mosquitoes rest indoor, temporary housing may also reduce the impact of IRS and discourage its adoption.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"Conclusion and recommendations\",\"content\":\"\\u003cp\\u003eWomen demonstrated substantial knowledge of malaria prevention, with ITNs being the most commonly used method. However, gaps remain in understanding the role of IPTp despite its high acceptance. Education level, age, marital status, and housing type were key factors influencing uptake. While many respondents engage in prevention, full adoption of ITNs, IRS, and IPTp is still limited.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eTo improve uptake, stakeholders should strengthen behavior change communication, ensure consistent supply of ITNs and IRS, and maintain the ongoing integration of malaria education into antenatal care services. Building trust between healthcare providers and women, training community leaders, and empowering VHTs to reach vulnerable groups are essential for enhancing adherence and impact.\\u003c/p\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"Abbreviations\",\"content\":\"\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eIRS:\\u003c/strong\\u003e Indoor Residual Spraying\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eITN\\u003c/strong\\u003e: Insecticides Treated Nets\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eLLINs:\\u003c/strong\\u003e Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eMOH\\u003c/strong\\u003e: Ministry of Health\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eWHO:\\u003c/strong\\u003e World Health Organization\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eIPTp\\u003c/strong\\u003e: Intermittent Preventive Treatment during Pregnancy.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eIPT:\\u003c/strong\\u003e Intermittent Preventive Treatment\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eNMCP:\\u003c/strong\\u003e National Malaria Control Program\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eUMIS:\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/strong\\u003eUganda Malaria Indicator Survey\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eUBOS:\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u0026nbsp; Uganda Bureau of Statistic\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eVHTs:\\u003c/strong\\u003e Village Health Teams\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eANC:\\u003c/strong\\u003e Antenatal care\\u003c/p\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"Declarations\",\"content\":\"\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eEthics approval and consent to participate\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eThis study was conducted in accordance with the Uganda National Guidelines for Research Involving Humans as Research Participants. Ethical approval for this study was sought from Gulu University Research Ethics Committee (GUREC-2024-989)). Permission to collect data within the community was obtained from City clerk of Lira City. Prior to participation, written informed consent was sought, and for illiterate participants consent was obtained from legal guardians and involvement was entirely voluntary. The collected data was exclusively utilized for this study, and participants were informed about the potential publication of the study results. To ensure clarity, the data collection tool (questionnaire) was translated into the native language, \\u0026apos;leb lango,\\u0026apos; and then back into English before the commencement of data collection.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eConsent for publication\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eNot applicable\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eAvailability of data and materials\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eThe datasets used and/or analysed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003eCompeting Interests\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eThe authors have no declared conflicts of interest.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003eFunding\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eThe research work did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors\\u003cstrong\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003eAuthor contributions.\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/strong\\u003e EA, HA, BO and RO\\u003csup\\u003e1\\u003c/sup\\u003e contributed to study design, development, data collection monitoring, and writing of the manuscript. EA, RO\\u003csup\\u003e2\\u003c/sup\\u003e and BO participated in data collection, data entry and data analysis. All authors contributed to manuscript editing and approval of the final version.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003e\\u003cem\\u003eAcknowledgments:\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/em\\u003e\\u003c/strong\\u003eWe sincerely thank the participants from Lira City for their valuable contributions to this study. We are grateful to the local administration for granting permission to conduct the research. We also acknowledge the Department of Biology at Gulu University for their academic guidance and support throughout the research process, and the management of Lira University for allowing time away from regular duties to facilitate the study.\\u003c/p\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"References\",\"content\":\"\\u003col\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eE. Sarpong \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Zero malaria: a mirage or reality for populations of sub-Saharan Africa in health transition,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 21, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;12, 2022, doi: 10.1186/s12936-022-04340-1.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eI. M. Taremwa, S. Ashaba, R. Kyarisiima, C. Ayebazibwe, R. Ninsiima, and C. Mattison, \\u0026ldquo;Treatment-seeking and uptake of malaria prevention strategies among pregnant women and caregivers of children under-five years during COVID-19 pandemic in rural communities in South West Uganda: a qualitative study,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eBMC Public Health\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;13, 2022, doi: 10.1186/s12889-022-12771-3.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eJ. Mukala \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Knowledge, attitude and practices on intermittent preventive treatment in pregnant women with malaria: a mixed method facility-based study in Western Kenya,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003ePan Afr. Med. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 48, 2024, doi: 10.11604/pamj.2024.48.22.42196.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eB. L. Solanke, D. A. Soladoye, I. A. Birsirka, A. Abdurraheem, and O. R. Salau, \\u0026ldquo;Utilization of insecticide-treated nets and associated factors among childbearing women in Northern Nigeria,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;11, 2023, doi: 10.1186/s12936-023-04620-4.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eM. A. S. Mbengue \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Factors influencing the use of malaria prevention strategies by women in Senegal: A cross-sectional study,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;9, 2017, doi: 10.1186/s12936-017-2095-2.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eWHO, \\u003cem\\u003eWorld malaria World malaria report report\\u003c/em\\u003e. 2023. [Online]. Available: https://www.wipo.int/amc/en/mediation/%0Ahttps://www.who.int/teams/global-malaria-programme/reports/world-malaria-report-2023\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eWHO, \\u003cem\\u003eWorld Malaria Report: 20 years of global progress and challenges\\u003c/em\\u003e. 2020. [Online]. Available: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240015791\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eI. Wadunde \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Factors associated with willingness to take up indoor residual spraying to prevent malaria in Tororo district, Uganda: A cross-sectional study,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 17, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;11, 2018, doi: 10.1186/s12936-017-2163-7.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eI. Niohuru, \\u003cem\\u003eDisease Burden and Mortality\\u003c/em\\u003e. 2023. doi: 10.1007/978-3-031-19719-2_3.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eS. T. Wafula \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;What are the pathways between poverty and malaria in sub-Saharan Africa? A systematic review of mediation studies,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eInfect. Dis. Poverty\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 12, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;18, 2023, doi: 10.1186/s40249-023-01110-2.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eOrganizaci\\u0026oacute;n Mundial de la Salud, \\u003cem\\u003eInforme de Malaria de la Organizaci\\u0026oacute;n Mundial de la Salud- 2023II\\u003c/em\\u003e. 2023.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eD. Roberts and G. Matthews, \\u0026ldquo;Risk factors of malaria in children under the age of five years old in Uganda,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 15, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;11, 2016, doi: 10.1186/s12936-016-1290-x.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eD. Chilot \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Pooled prevalence and risk factors of malaria among children aged 6\\u0026ndash;59 months in 13 sub-Saharan African countries: A multilevel analysis using recent malaria indicator surveys,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003ePLoS One\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 18, no. 5 MAY, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;16, 2023, doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285265.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eU. M. I. S. 2018-19 NMCD, UBOS, ICF, \\u0026ldquo;Uganda Malaria Indicator Survey 2018-19. Kampala, Uganda,\\u0026rdquo; p. 52, 2020, [Online]. Available: https://www.dhsprogram.com/pubs/pdf/MIS34/MIS34.pdf\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eUSAID / PMI, \\u0026ldquo;Presidential \\u0026rsquo;s Malaria Initiative Uganda Malaria Operational Plan FY 2017,\\u0026rdquo; p. 10, 2017.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eJ. Epuitai and G. Ndeezi, \\u0026ldquo;Prevalence and factors associated with placental malaria in Lira District , Northern Uganda : a cross- sectional study,\\u0026rdquo; pp. 1\\u0026ndash;17, 2023.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eM. W. Aregawi \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Malaria epidemics and its drivers in Uganda in 2022,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J. \\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 24, no. 1, 2025, doi: 10.1186/s12936-025-05351-4.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eB. Terefe, A. Habtie, and B. Chekole, \\u0026ldquo;Insecticide-treated net utilization and associated factors among pregnant women in East Africa: evidence from the recent national demographic and health surveys, 2011\\u0026ndash;2022,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;9, 2023, doi: 10.1186/s12936-023-04779-w.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eF. C. Godoi, S. Prakash, and B. R. Bhandari, \\u0026ldquo;Final report Final report,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eRev. 3D Print. potential red meat Appl.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 1, no. 23 February 2021, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;61, 2021, [Online]. Available: http://libdcms.nida.ac.th/thesis6/2010/b166706.pdf\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eA. Marie \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Quarterly Epidemiological Bulletin: April \\u0026ndash; June, 2023,\\u0026rdquo; vol. 8, no. 2, pp. 2017\\u0026ndash;2021, 2023.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eR. Mwesige, J. P. Byagamy, R. Opiro, H. Angwech, and P. B. Ocen, \\u0026ldquo;Species composition and feeding pattern of malaria vectors in indoor and non-indoor residual spraying districts of Lira and Kole , Northern Uganda,\\u0026rdquo; 2024.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eM. C. Lakshminarasimhappa, \\u0026ldquo;Web-Based and Smart Mobile App for Data Collection: Kobo Toolbox / Kobo Collect,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eJ. Indian Libr. Assoc.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 57, no. 2, pp. 72\\u0026ndash;79, 2021.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eI. J. Ilo, U. A. Umeh, S. I. Okolie, I. O. Ehiemere, C. C. Agunwa, and C. R. Umeh, \\u0026ldquo;Knowledge and Use of Insecticide Treated Nets Among Pregnant Women in Enugu Urban,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eOrient J. Med.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 32, no. 3\\u0026ndash;4, pp. 87\\u0026ndash;96, 2020, [Online]. Available: https://www.ajol.info/index.php/ojm/article/view/201864\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eG. A. Kassie \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Insecticide-treated bed net utilization and associated factors among pregnant women in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;17, 2023, doi: 10.1186/s12936-023-04655-7.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eA. R. Akello, J. P. Byagamy, S. Etajak, C. S. Okadhi, and A. Yeka, \\u0026ldquo;Factors influencing consistent use of bed nets for the control of malaria among children under 5 years in Soroti District, North Eastern Uganda,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 21, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;13, 2022, doi: 10.1186/s12936-022-04396-z.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eA. Maga\\u0026ccedil;o \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Community knowledge and acceptance of indoor residual spraying for malaria prevention in Mozambique: A qualitative study,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 18, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;12, 2019, doi: 10.1186/s12936-019-2653-x.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eD. T. Jumbam \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Knowledge, attitudes and practices assessment of malaria interventions in rural Zambia,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eBMC Public Health\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;15, 2020, doi: 10.1186/s12889-020-8235-6.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eP. Adum, V. A. Agyare, J. Owusu-Marfo, and Y. N. Agyeman, \\u0026ldquo;Knowledge, attitude and practices of malaria preventive measures among mothers with children under five years in a rural setting of Ghana,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;12, 2023, doi: 10.1186/s12936-023-04702-3.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eA. I. Omotayo \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Community Knowledge, Attitude and Practices on Malaria Vector Control Strategies in Lagos State, South-West Nigeria,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eJ. Med. Entomol.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 58, no. 3, pp. 1280\\u0026ndash;1286, 2021, doi: 10.1093/jme/tjaa278.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eI. M. Taremwa \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Knowledge, attitude and behaviour towards the use of insecticide treated mosquito nets among pregnant women and children in rural Southwestern Uganda,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eBMC Public Health\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 17, no. 1, pp. 4\\u0026ndash;11, 2017, doi: 10.1186/s12889-017-4824-4.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eB. Cheng, S. N. Htoo, N. P. P. Mhote, and C. M. Davison, \\u0026ldquo;A systematic review of factors influencing participation in two types of malaria prevention intervention in Southeast Asia,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;9, 2021, doi: 10.1186/s12936-021-03733-y.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eO. Nkoka, T. W. Chuang, K. Y. Chuang, and Y. H. Chen, \\u0026ldquo;Factors associated with insecticide-treated net usage among women of childbearing age in Malawi: A multilevel analysis,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 17, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;16, 2018, doi: 10.1186/s12936-018-2522-z.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eT. G. Fuge, S. Y. Ayanto, and F. L. Gurmamo, \\u0026ldquo;Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice about malaria and ITNs utilization among pregnant women in Shashogo District, Southern Ethiopia,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 14, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;9, 2015, doi: 10.1186/s12936-015-0755-7.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eA. Asale \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Community knowledge, perceptions, and practices regarding malaria and its control in Jabi Tehnan district, Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;13, 2021, doi: 10.1186/s12936-021-03996-5.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eN. A. Naserrudin \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Knowledge, compliance, and challenges in anti-malarial products usage: a systematic review of at-risk communities for zoonotic malaria,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eBMC Public Health\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 24, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;16, 2024, doi: 10.1186/s12889-024-17792-8.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eJ. Scott, M. Kanyangarara, A. Nhama, E. Macete, W. J. Moss, and F. Saute, \\u0026ldquo;Factors associated with use of insecticide ‑ treated net for malaria prevention in Manica District , Mozambique : a community ‑ based cross ‑ sectional survey,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;9, 2021, doi: 10.1186/s12936-021-03738-7.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eE. K. Ameyaw, Y. O. Kareem, and S. Yaya, \\u0026ldquo;Individual, community and region level predictors of insecticide-treated net use among women in Uganda: A multilevel analysis,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 19, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;9, 2020, doi: 10.1186/s12936-020-03412-4.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eE. M. Tadesse, Y. S. Baruda, and T. M. Tadesse, \\u0026ldquo;Assessment of household insecticide-treated bed net ownership, utilization, and associated factors in Kersa Woreda, Jimma Zone, Southwest Ethiopia,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eJ. Heal. Popul. Nutr.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 43, no. 1, 2024, doi: 10.1186/s41043-024-00684-3.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eP. N. Ng\\u0026rsquo;ang\\u0026rsquo;a, P. Aduogo, and C. M. Mutero, \\u0026ldquo;Long lasting insecticidal mosquito nets (LLINs) ownership, use and coverage following mass distribution campaign in Lake Victoria basin, Western Kenya,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eBMC Public Health\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 21, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;13, 2021, doi: 10.1186/s12889-021-11062-7.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eC. Marsh, D. Ruggiero, R. C. Marsh, and E. Di Ruggiero, \\u0026ldquo;Improving the utilization of insecticide ‑ treated nets for malaria prevention among pregnant women , lactating mothers and children in Sierra Leone : a commentary,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, 2025, doi: 10.1186/s12936-025-05429-z.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eWHO, \\u0026ldquo;Guideline WHO Guidelines for malaria - 14 March 2023,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eWho\\u003c/em\\u003e, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;447, 2023, [Online]. Available: http://apps.who.int/bookorders.%0Ahttps://www.mmv.org/sites/default/files/content/document/WHO-UCN-GMP-2023.01-eng.pdf\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eR. Echodu, W. S. Oyet, T. Iwiru, J. J. Lutwama, and O. Otim, \\u0026ldquo;Household predictors of malaria episode in Northern Uganda: Its implication for future malaria control,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eBMC Public Health\\u003c/em\\u003e, 2021, doi: 10.1186/s12889-025-22175-8.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eM. Aongola, P. Kaonga, C. Michelo, J. Zgambo, J. Lupenga, and C. Jacobs, \\u0026ldquo;Acceptability and associated factors of indoor residual spraying for malaria control by households in Luangwa district of Zambia: A multilevel analysis,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003ePLOS Glob. Public Heal.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 2, no. 8, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;13, 2022, doi: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000368.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eY. Zhou \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Effectiveness of indoor residual spraying on malaria control: a systematic review and meta-analysis,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eInfect. Dis. Poverty\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 11, no. 1, 2022, doi: 10.1186/s40249-022-01005-8.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eP. A. West \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Enhanced Protection against Malaria by Indoor Residual Spraying in Addition to Insecticide Treated Nets : Is It Dependent on Transmission Intensity or Net Usage ?,\\u0026rdquo; pp. 1\\u0026ndash;14, 2015, doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115661.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eR. O. Chimezie, \\u0026ldquo;Health Awareness: A Significant Factor in Chronic Diseases Prevention and Access to Care,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eJ. Biosci. Med.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 11, no. 02, pp. 64\\u0026ndash;79, 2023, doi: 10.4236/jbm.2023.112005.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eK. Omona, \\u0026ldquo;Factors Influencing Uptake of IPTp3+ Among Pregnant Women Attending ANC in Mawokota North Health Sub District, Mpigi District, Uganda,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eCogniz. J. Multidiscip. Stud.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 1, no. 3, pp. 17\\u0026ndash;29, 2021, doi: 10.47760/cognizance.2021.v01i03.002.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eE. Nkunzimana and M. S. Babale, \\u0026ldquo;Knowledge and Utilisation of Intermittent Preventive Treatment of Malaria,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eEast African Heal. Res. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 4, no. 1, pp. 81\\u0026ndash;91, 2020.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eG. O. Peters and M. Naidoo, \\u0026ldquo;Factors influencing intermittent preventive treatment for malaria prevention among pregnant women accessing antenatal care in selected primary health care facilities of Bwari Area Council, Abuja Nigeria,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003ePLoS One\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 17, no. 12 December, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;18, 2022, doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277877.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eD. Chefor, E. Njih, and G. Tchatchouang, \\u0026ldquo;Knowledge , Attitudes , and Utilization of Intermittent Preventive Treatment for Malaria Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in Private Facilities : A Study in Five Selected Health Areas of the Dschang Health District,\\u0026rdquo; vol. 3, no. 3, pp. 62\\u0026ndash;75, 2025, doi: 10.63002/asrp.33.939.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eD. Nesga, D. Abate, G. Birhanu, and A. Addissie, \\u0026ldquo;Assessment of Malaria Vector Control Measures ( ITNs \\u0026amp; IRS ) Utilization and Factors Affecting it in Adama District , East Shoa Zone , Oromia Region Ethiopia , 2018,\\u0026rdquo; vol. 6, no. 2, pp. 46\\u0026ndash;51, 2020, doi: 10.11648/j.jfmhc.20200602.13.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eK. D. Konlan, N. Kossi Vivor, I. Gegefe, and L. Hayford, \\u0026ldquo;Factors associated with ownership and utilization of insecticide treated nets among children under five years in sub-Saharan Africa,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eBMC Public Health\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;11, 2022, doi: 10.1186/s12889-022-13347-x.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003cli\\u003eC. S. Ahorlu \\u003cem\\u003eet al.\\u003c/em\\u003e, \\u0026ldquo;Understanding the gap between access and use: a qualitative study on barriers and facilitators to insecticide-treated net use in Ghana,\\u0026rdquo; \\u003cem\\u003eMalar. J.\\u003c/em\\u003e, vol. 18, no. 1, pp. 1\\u0026ndash;14, 2019, doi: 10.1186/s12936-019-3051-0.\\u003c/li\\u003e\\n\\u003c/ol\\u003e\"}],\"fulltextSource\":\"\",\"fullText\":\"\",\"funders\":[],\"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow\":false,\"hasManuscriptDocX\":true,\"hasOptedInToPreprint\":true,\"hasPassedJournalQc\":\"\",\"hasAnyPriority\":false,\"hideJournal\":false,\"highlight\":\"\",\"institution\":\"\",\"isAcceptedByJournal\":true,\"isAuthorSuppliedPdf\":false,\"isDeskRejected\":\"\",\"isHiddenFromSearch\":false,\"isInQc\":false,\"isInWorkflow\":false,\"isPdf\":false,\"isPdfUpToDate\":true,\"isWithdrawnOrRetracted\":false,\"journal\":{\"display\":true,\"email\":\"info@researchsquare.com\",\"identity\":\"bmc-public-health\",\"isNatureJournal\":false,\"hasQc\":true,\"allowDirectSubmit\":false,\"externalIdentity\":\"pubh\",\"sideBox\":\"Learn more about [BMC Public Health](http://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/)\",\"snPcode\":\"\",\"submissionUrl\":\"https://www.editorialmanager.com/pubh/default.aspx\",\"title\":\"BMC Public Health\",\"twitterHandle\":\"@BMC_series\",\"acdcEnabled\":true,\"dfaEnabled\":false,\"editorialSystem\":\"em\",\"reportingPortfolio\":\"BMC Series\",\"inReviewEnabled\":true,\"inReviewRevisionsEnabled\":true},\"keywords\":\"Utilization, malaria controls, women of reproductive age, Lira city\",\"lastPublishedDoi\":\"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7878214/v1\",\"lastPublishedDoiUrl\":\"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-7878214/v1\",\"license\":{\"name\":\"CC BY 4.0\",\"url\":\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/\"},\"manuscriptAbstract\":\"\\u003cp\\u003eMalaria remains a major public health concern in Uganda, with prevalence in Lira City rising sharply in recent years despite ongoing interventions. Women of reproductive age are particularly vulnerable, yet little is known about their use of available preventive measures. This study assessed knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and utilization of malaria control interventions, and examined factors influencing their uptake.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eA cross-sectional, mixed-methods study was conducted with 629 randomly selected women of reproductive age in Lira City. Quantitative data were collected using semi structured questionnaires, while qualitative insights were obtained through focus group discussions. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp), and indoor residual spraying (IRS). Chi-square tests were used to examine associations, and multivariate logistic regression was applied to identify predictors of utilization. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically to explore barriers to uptake, and findings were triangulated with quantitative results for validation and deeper interpretation.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eITN utilization was high (84.1%), IPTp uptake moderate (68%), and IRS coverage low (32.8%). Almost all participants (96.8%) were knowledgeable about ITNs, mainly gained through health workers, and expressed positive attitudes toward malaria prevention (mean score: 4.34, SD\\u0026thinsp;=\\u0026thinsp;0.67). While most (91.9%) perceived IRS as effective, concerns included bad odor and discomfort (51.7%), doubt about safety (21.9%), and effectiveness (17.3%). Age, type of house, challenges faced with nets, marital status, and exposure to health education were significant predictors of utilization.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\u003cp\\u003eDespite widespread ITN use, IRS uptake remains limited due to persistent concerns and misconceptions. Strengthening targeted health education, addressing community fears, and improving access to interventions are critical for enhancing malaria control in high-transmission settings like Lira City.\\u003c/p\\u003e\",\"manuscriptTitle\":\"Utilization of Malaria Control Interventions and Associated Factors Among Women of Reproductive Age in Lira City, Northern Uganda\",\"msid\":\"\",\"msnumber\":\"\",\"nonDraftVersions\":[{\"code\":1,\"date\":\"2025-11-05 06:30:17\",\"doi\":\"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7878214/v1\",\"editorialEvents\":[{\"type\":\"communityComments\",\"content\":0},{\"type\":\"decision\",\"content\":\"Revision requested\",\"date\":\"2025-11-26T09:37:32+00:00\",\"index\":\"\",\"fulltext\":\"\"},{\"type\":\"editorInvitedReview\",\"content\":\"\",\"date\":\"2025-11-24T12:57:34+00:00\",\"index\":\"hide\",\"fulltext\":\"\"},{\"type\":\"reviewerAgreed\",\"content\":\"74084919397687483186411601594956286628\",\"date\":\"2025-11-12T10:26:37+00:00\",\"index\":\"hide\",\"fulltext\":\"\"},{\"type\":\"editorInvitedReview\",\"content\":\"\",\"date\":\"2025-11-03T18:55:05+00:00\",\"index\":\"hide\",\"fulltext\":\"\"},{\"type\":\"editorInvitedReview\",\"content\":\"\",\"date\":\"2025-11-03T00:31:33+00:00\",\"index\":\"hide\",\"fulltext\":\"\"},{\"type\":\"reviewerAgreed\",\"content\":\"134144665176811872054634531772333414688\",\"date\":\"2025-10-26T21:57:22+00:00\",\"index\":\"hide\",\"fulltext\":\"\"},{\"type\":\"reviewerAgreed\",\"content\":\"949436118664837822549305197355278087\",\"date\":\"2025-10-24T17:10:51+00:00\",\"index\":\"hide\",\"fulltext\":\"\"},{\"type\":\"reviewersInvited\",\"content\":\"\",\"date\":\"2025-10-23T08:56:12+00:00\",\"index\":\"\",\"fulltext\":\"\"},{\"type\":\"editorInvited\",\"content\":\"\",\"date\":\"2025-10-21T12:00:10+00:00\",\"index\":\"\",\"fulltext\":\"\"},{\"type\":\"editorAssigned\",\"content\":\"\",\"date\":\"2025-10-19T23:04:49+00:00\",\"index\":\"\",\"fulltext\":\"\"},{\"type\":\"checksComplete\",\"content\":\"\",\"date\":\"2025-10-19T23:04:37+00:00\",\"index\":\"\",\"fulltext\":\"\"},{\"type\":\"submitted\",\"content\":\"BMC Public Health\",\"date\":\"2025-10-16T13:13:22+00:00\",\"index\":\"\",\"fulltext\":\"\"}],\"status\":\"published\",\"journal\":{\"display\":true,\"email\":\"info@researchsquare.com\",\"identity\":\"bmc-public-health\",\"isNatureJournal\":false,\"hasQc\":true,\"allowDirectSubmit\":false,\"externalIdentity\":\"pubh\",\"sideBox\":\"Learn more about [BMC Public Health](http://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/)\",\"snPcode\":\"\",\"submissionUrl\":\"https://www.editorialmanager.com/pubh/default.aspx\",\"title\":\"BMC Public Health\",\"twitterHandle\":\"@BMC_series\",\"acdcEnabled\":true,\"dfaEnabled\":false,\"editorialSystem\":\"em\",\"reportingPortfolio\":\"BMC Series\",\"inReviewEnabled\":true,\"inReviewRevisionsEnabled\":true}}],\"origin\":\"\",\"ownerIdentity\":\"b1c79acc-f632-40da-bff0-ae4aab29b507\",\"owner\":[],\"postedDate\":\"November 5th, 2025\",\"published\":true,\"recentEditorialEvents\":[],\"rejectedJournal\":[],\"revision\":\"\",\"amendment\":\"\",\"status\":\"published-in-journal\",\"subjectAreas\":[],\"tags\":[],\"updatedAt\":\"2026-03-16T16:16:00+00:00\",\"versionOfRecord\":{\"articleIdentity\":\"rs-7878214\",\"link\":\"https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-026-26899-z\",\"journal\":{\"identity\":\"bmc-public-health\",\"isVorOnly\":false,\"title\":\"BMC Public Health\"},\"publishedOn\":\"2026-03-09 15:59:57\",\"publishedOnDateReadable\":\"March 9th, 2026\"},\"versionCreatedAt\":\"2025-11-05 06:30:17\",\"video\":\"\",\"vorDoi\":\"10.1186/s12889-026-26899-z\",\"vorDoiUrl\":\"https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-026-26899-z\",\"workflowStages\":[]},\"version\":\"v1\",\"identity\":\"rs-7878214\",\"journalConfig\":\"researchsquare\"},\"__N_SSP\":true},\"page\":\"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]\",\"query\":{\"redirect\":\"/article/rs-7878214\",\"identity\":\"rs-7878214\",\"version\":[\"v1\"]},\"buildId\":\"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7\",\"isFallback\":false,\"isExperimentalCompile\":false,\"dynamicIds\":[84888],\"gssp\":true,\"scriptLoader\":[]}","source_license":"CC-BY-4.0","license_restricted":false}