Abstract

Ibebuike J. E.*, Nwokike G. I., Osuala J. C., Nwosu D. C. and Nwanjo H. U.

ABSTRACT

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a subtype of diabetes mellitus defined as the development, or first recognition, of glucose intolerance during pregnancy. The purpose of this study was to investigate the awareness of GDM and its risk factors among antenatal women in Federal Medical Centre, exploring where participants obtained information, and understanding of the risk factors, consequences and preventive measures of GDM. A quantitative cross-sectional study of 141 women attending antenatal clinic in Federal Medical Centre Owerri, in June 2017 was performed. 56% women were aware of GDM, 58% women were aware diabetes can occur for the first time during pregnancy. The greatest information source was from doctors/health workers (45%, n=63) followed by family members (22%, n=31), based on 141 respondents. Only one woman correctly identified all four risk factors for GDM. Most women recognized eating a healthy diet (79%) and regular physical activity (75%) to be appropriate lifestyle changes to help prevent GDM. These findings suggest awareness of GDM among pregnant women in Federal Medical Centre Owerri is poor, with a very small proportion having good knowledge (based on the number of risk factors identified). We conclude that increased education about GDM is necessary, both in hospital clinics and within the community. By increasing awareness of GDM, it may be possible to decrease the prevalence of Type2Diabetes Mellitusand long-term morbidity in children of affected mothers.