Factors Associated with Knowledge about Gestational Diabetes Mellitus among Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Abstract Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is an increasing public health problem worldwide. Measuring the level of knowledge in a population at high risk for GDM will highlight the gaps and help in designing appropriate interventions. The objective of this study was to measure the knowledge about GDM and to identify the factors associated with it among pregnant women in Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted with pregnant women seeking antenatal care services in two of the public sector tertiary care hospitals in Riyadh city. The study was performed using a self-administrated predesigned questionnaire. Collected data were analyzed using SPSS program. Results: More than 40% of the participants had poor knowledge about GDM complications, diagnosis and management. Women with lack of exercise [adjusted odds ratio 3.3 (95% CI 1.8, 6.1)]; having past histroy of GDM [3.2 (1.8, 5.7); primigravida [2.9 (1.6, 5.1)]; information on GDM received from doctors [2.0 (1.2, 3.4)] and those with low education level [1.8 (1.1, 2.9)] were more likely to have poor knowledge about GDM. Whereas, women with positive family history were 60 times more likely to have good knowledge about GDM. Conclusion: Primigravida mothers and those with low education level should receive specific information and awareness regarding GDM. Healthy lifestyle is important for the prevention and improvement in the diagnosis and management of GDM among pregnant women in Riyadh.