Malar J. 2026 Jun 26. doi: 10.1186/s12936-026-06014-8. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
Malaria remains a significant public health challenge in Bangladesh with ongoing transmission driven primarily by Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. Understanding its current prevalence and parasite distribution is essential for guiding control and elimination strategies. This study aims to estimate the pooled prevalence of malaria and its major parasite species across the country. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Science Direct, EMBASE and Google Scholar for studies published between 2005 to 2025. Eligible studies were assessed for quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tool. Pooled prevalence estimates were calculated using random-effects models while heterogeneity and inconsistencies were evaluated using the I2 index and Cochran’s Q-test. Publication bias was assessed with funnel plots and Egger’s test. Of 10,152 identified studies, 14 met inclusion criteria. The pooled malaria prevalence in Bangladesh was 16% (95% CI 6%-37%) with high heterogeneity (I2 = 99.6%, p = 0). Subgroup analyses showed prevalence’s of 14% (95% CI 9%-21%) for P. vivax, 80% (95% CI 68%-88%) for P. falciparum and 7% (95% CI 4%-13%) for mixed infections. Malaria prevalence was higher in males (20%, 95% CI 7%-47%) than females (12%, 95% CI 3%-35%). Funnel plot asymmetry was observed but Egger’s test indicated no significant publication bias. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the findings. However, the findings should be interpreted with caution as reliance on microscopy and rapid diagnostic tests may have limited the detection of non-falciparum, mixed-species and submicroscopic malaria infections. This study highlights the substantial malaria burden in Bangladesh, driven mainly by P. falciparum and P. vivax and underscores the need for targeted, species-specific and gender-sensitive interventions to accelerate malaria control and elimination.
PMID:42363176 | DOI:10.1186/s12936-026-06014-8
