Assessing cohort retention and associated factors among seasonal malaria chemoprevention-eligible children in four West and Central African countries in 2024

Authors: Ebenezer Ikechukwu, Benoit Sawadogo, Aristide Doumtoudjimbaye, Olabisi Ogunmola, Honore Banang, Clotaire Tapsoba, Kabo Karadjom, Olusola Oresanya, Jennifer Chukwumerije, Chibuzo Oguoma, Fantche Awokou, Kolawole Maxwell, Christian Rassi, Chuks Nnaji

Child, caregiver and health system factors predict cohort retention. Empowering caregivers through targeted education and community engagement is essential for sustaining seasonal malaria chemoprevention coverage, maximising its impact and protecting children throughout the malaria season.

Seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) using sulfadoxine–pyrimethamine plus amodiaquine (SPAQ) is a proven strategy for reducing malaria incidence in children 3–59 months in eligible regions during the peak malaria transmission season. Full adherence to the three-day SPAQ regimen across all cycles of the SMC round, termed cohort retention, is critical for optimal protection. This study explores child, caregiver and health system factors influencing cohort retention across four countries: Burkina Faso, Chad, Nigeria and Togo.

This poster was presented at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, held on 9-13 November in Toronto, Canada.