GESTATIONAL DIABETES

Background: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a glucose intolerance disorder first recognized during pregnancy and is associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes such as preeclampsia, macrosomia, and neonatal hypoglycemia. The global burden of GDM is rising, including in Nigeria, yet screening remains inadequate in many primary healthcare (PHC) settings. Objective: This study assessed the risk status and associated factors of GDM among pregnant women attending PHC centers in Egor and Ovia North-East Local Government Areas of Edo State. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed. Pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at selected PHC facilities were recruited using convenience sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires on demographic, obstetric, and lifestyle factors, alongside a nine-item GDM risk assessment tool. Descriptive statistics and internal consistency testing (Cronbach’s alpha) were used for analysis. Results: Most respondents were aged 26–35 years. Based on the risk assessment tool, 74.7% were low risk, 22.4% moderate risk, and 2.9% high risk for GDM. Significant predictors included maternal age, pre-pregnancy body mass index, family history of diabetes or hypertension, and previous obstetric complications. Sociodemographic factors such as marital status, education, and occupation were not significantly associated. Regular exercise and healthy diets were linked to lower GDM risk. The risk assessment tool showed good reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.702). Conclusion: Early identification of at-risk women through effective screening and timely antenatal care can improve maternal and neonatal outcomes. Integrating GDM risk assessment, counseling, and lifestyle education into PHC services is strongly recommended

This project examined the level of awareness of gestational diabetes among pregnant women in military hospital in Oredo L.G.A Four research questions were raised. Related literature was reviewed to gather information on eminent scholars view on the study. The descriptive survey research design was adopted in this study. The population of this study was made up of 300 pregnant women from January to November 2022. A total of 100 pregnant women made up the sample size for the study. A descriptive statistics of frequency and percentages was used in the data analysis. The major findings of the study are as follows: A large number of respondents are not aware of gestational diabetes. Half of the respondents are not aware of the factors that cause gestational diabetes. Large percentage of the pregnant women in military hospital is not aware of the symptoms of gestational diabetes. And Majority of the respondents do not know how to prevent gestational diabetes. Based on the submission above, the following recommendations were made amongst others: awareness campaign should be done; this can be done on television and radio station to create more awareness on gestational diabetes.