Abstract :
Background: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a significant public health concern, particularly in developing countries like India, where its prevalence is rising. This study aimed to identify the modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors associated with GDM among pregnant women attending a tertiary care hospital in Kolkata, West Bengal.Materials and Methods: A case-control study was conducted over 17 months, involving 113 cases (pregnant women diagnosed with GDM) and 226 controls (pregnant women without GDM). Data were collected through structured interviews, medical records, and physical measurements. The association between various risk factors and GDM was analysed using bivariate and multivariate statistical methods.Results: Significant risk factors for GDM in univariate analysis included a family history of diabetes (OR 1.86, 95% CI: 1.25-2.78), hypertension (OR 2.67, 95% CI: 2.00-3.58), previous history of GDM (OR 20.19, 95% CI: 5.64-72.21), and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) (OR 5.53, 95% CI: 0.99-30.94). Modifiable factors such as weight gain ?7 kg (OR 2.48, 95% CI: 1.556-3.974), low to moderate physical activity (OR 3.20, 95% CI: 1.14-0.68), multiparity (OR 4.53, 95% CL: 2.21-9.29) were also significantly associated with GDM using univariate regression analysis. However, applying proportional hazard model factors like family history of diabetes, previous history of GDM, History of abortion were only significant risk factors.Conclusion: The present study emphasizes the need for early screening and timely intervention in pregnant women with identifiable risk factors such as a family history of diabetes or hypertension, previous history of GDM, and PCOS. Adopting lifestyle modifications, may play a significant role in reducing the risk of developing GDM.
Keyword :
GDM, Pregnancy, Risk factors, Case control.