Risk Factors Associated with Gestational Diabetes among Pregnant Women in Owerri Municipal Council, Southeastern Nigeria

Background Gestational diabetes is emerging as a serious public health problem in Nigeria where the largest number of people with diabetes in Africa occurs. Current studies in Nigeria give an overall prevalence of gestational diabetes as 13.4% among pregnant women with unidentified risk factors. Aims and Objectives This study aimed at investigating the risk factors associated with gestational diabetes. Materials and Methods A cross-section analytical study design was adopted for this research and comprising a total of 100 pregnant women receiving ante-natal health care service at the Federal Medical Center, Owerri. A structured questionnaire including a set of detailed pre-determined questions was administered on the subjects. Data collected were analyzed statistically, using chi-square and T test. Results The results obtained suggest that there is a significant relationship (p<0.05) between previous macrosomic baby, parity, previous history of caesarean section, family history of diabetes and occurrence of gestational diabetes, respectively. However, there is no significant relationship (p>0.05) between history of miscarriages and stillbirth, socioeconomic status and occurrence of gestational diabetes. A family history of diabetes is independently and significantly associated with the development of gestational diabetes itself even after adjusting for other risk factors. Conclusion This study will be a working tool to guide obstetricians and midwives in counseling and advising women of their risk of developing GDM.

Abstract licence: CC BY-NC

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