Knowledge Of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Among Pregnant Mothers In A Urban Hospital - A Cross -sectional Study

Abstract

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), Defined As Glucose Intolerance First Identified During Pregnancy, Significantly Increases Risks Of Maternal And Neonatal Complications, Including Preeclampsia, Macrosomia, And Future Type 2 Diabetes. Despite Its Growing Prevalence—especially In India, Which Accounts For Nearly Five Million Cases Annually—awareness Among Pregnant Women Remains Alarmingly Low, Particularly In Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Populations.Objective:This Study Aimed To Assess The Awareness Levels Of GDM Among Pregnant Women In Urban And Semi-urban Regions Of Karaikal, India, And To Examine The Relationship Between Awareness And Key Sociodemographic Factors.Methods:A Cross-sectional Study Was Conducted Over Six Months At An Urban Hospital In Karaikal. A Pre-validated 25-item Questionnaire Covering GDM Risk Factors, Symptoms, Screening, Treatment, And Complications Was Administered To 400 Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinics. Statistical Analyses, Including Chi-square Tests And Logistic Regression, Were Used To Evaluate Associations Between Awareness Levels And Demographic Variables.Results:Only 14% Of Participants Demonstrated Good Awareness Of GDM, While 33% Had Poor Awareness. Significant Associations Were Found Between Higher Awareness And Tertiary Education (OR 2.67, P=0.002) As Well As Urban Residence (OR 1.94, P=0.018). Knowledge Deficits Were Particularly Evident Regarding GDM Complications And Treatment.Conclusion:There Is A Critical Need For Targeted, Culturally Appropriate Antenatal Education Programs Focusing On GDM Awareness, Especially For Women With Limited Education And Those In Rural Or Semi-urban Settings. Improving Maternal Health Literacy Could Enhance Early Detection And Management Of GDM, Thereby Reducing Both Immediate Obstetric Risks And Long-term Diabetes Burden In Mothers And Offspring.

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