Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus among Pregnant Women Attending Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar
Research Article
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31580/pjmls.v8i1.3253Keywords:
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), Pregnancy Complications, Trimester-Specific Diagnosis, PeshawarAbstract
Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a serious chronic disorder with adverse outcomes for both mother and fetus. In countries like Pakistan, where healthcare resources and awareness are limited, the rising prevalence of GDM poses significant health risks. Aims: This study aimed to determine the frequency and risk factors associated with GDM among pregnant women at Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, Pakistan. Material and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from June to November 2023. A total of 152 pregnant women diagnosed with GDM were enrolled using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire addressing demographic information and knowledge related to GDM. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 22. Results: Among the 152 participants, 38.2% were aged 25–30 years, 29.6% were 31–36 years, and 32.2% were 37–42 years. A family history of diabetes was present in 76.3% of cases. Regarding BMI, 45.4% had normal weight, 27.6% were overweight, and 27.0% were obese. GDM prevalence was highest among women in their third pregnancy (48.7%), compared to the first (20.4%) and second pregnancies (30.9%). Key risk factors identified included advanced maternal age, pre-pregnancy overweight, excessive weight gain during pregnancy, positive family history of diabetes, previous history of GDM, and delivering large babies. Conclusion: GDM is an escalating global health concern, with maternal obesity, family history of diabetes, advanced age, and poor diet among the main risk factors. Early screening and diagnosis are critical to safeguarding maternal and fetal health.
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