Francine MUSWELE

Dr. Francine MUSWELE


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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20 December 2025 in Pathogens
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
CDClarisse Dianzenza
Clarisse Dianzenza
JTJaphet Kabalu Tshiongo
Japhet Kabalu Tshiongo
LBLise Kuseke Breben
Lise Kuseke Breben
FMFrancine MUSWELE
Francine MUSWELE
GKGustave Kasereka
Gustave Kasereka
Hypolite Muhindo MavokoHypolite Muhindo Mavoko
Hypolite Muhindo Mavoko
Background: Geohelminthiasis and malaria are major public health problems in Kinshasa. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to these conditions due to their weakened immunity, with severe complications such as maternal anemia and low birth weight. This study assessed the prevalence and associated factors of geohelminth–malaria co-infection. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in two hospitals in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, which included 336 pregnant women. The lab analyses included thick smears for malaria, stool examinations for geohelminths, and hemoglobin measurements. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify associated variables, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: Geohelminth–malaria co-infection was observed in 5.7% of pregnant women, while the prevalence of geohelminthiasis alone was 7.7%. Ascaris lumbricoides was the most frequent parasite (6.3%), followed by Trichuris trichiura (1.5%) and Ancylostoma duodenale (0.3%). The third trimester was associated with a significantly increased risk of co-infection and geohelminthiasis (ORa = 5.8; 95% CI: 1.36–9.23; p = 0.0077). No significant association was found between co-infection and maternal anemia. Conclusions: Although co-infection prevalence was low in Kinshasa, the third trimester is a risk period. Systematic screening and integrated management during pregnancy are recommended.