Estimation of Risk Factors and Frequency of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Pregnant Women Visiting Sheikh Zayed Medical Complex Lahore, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: The burden, determinants, and outcomes of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are not completely known. Pregnant women with GDM are at higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes which include preterm birth, still birth and low birth weight that are major causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Despite the severity of the situation, many countries still lack epidemiological data that may help them respond effectively.

Objective: To evaluate the current frequency and risk factors of GDM in population of Lahore attending Sheikh Zayed Medical complex.

Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among pregnant women, who were visiting Gynecology OPD in Sheikh Zayed Medical Complex Lahore between April, 2021 and July, 2021. A structured questionnaire was designed to collect demography information which included age, weight, height, body mass index (BMI), total family members, lifestyle, history of smoking, blood pressure, years of marriage and residential area etc. Height and weight were measured using standard protocol.

Results: A total of 314 pregnant women (mean age: 27.63±4.62 years) having 3^rd trimester were enrolled for this research who underwent 75g OGTT. Cutoff values were taken according to International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Group (IADPSG) criteria. 10.2% study participants had GDM while 9.2% were categorized as prediabetic and remaining had normal blood sugar levels.

Conclusion: Advanced gestational age, higher pre-pregnancy BMI, excessive weight gain during current pregnancy and gravida were found more significantly related to GDM. Family history of DM was found to be less significant risk factor for GDM in this study. Higher rates of GDM pose a challenge to healthcare systems, but improved screening provides an opportunity to attempt to reduce the associated morbidity and mortality for mother and child.