Gestational Diabetes Mellitus among women attending antenatal clinic in a Tertiary Hospital in Northern Nigeria

Introduction: Women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are at an increased risk of adverse perinatal and maternal morbidities and mortalities. Hence, early detection and management of this condition is vital to ensure a good outcome for both mother and baby. Aim: The aim of the study is to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors for GDM among antenatal attendees in Federal Medical Centre Gusau (FMCG), Zamfara state, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out. Screening was done between 24 and 28-weeks gestational age with a 75g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Plasma glucose measurements was performed using the glucose oxidase method. GDM was diagnosed according to the 2013 WHO diagnostic criteria. Data were collected using a proforma and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 26. Descriptive data were presented in frequency tables. Statistical testing using Chi-square, and multivariate analysis (Odd ratio and CI) were carried out with a level of significance set as P< 0.05. Results: One hundred and thirty-six women between the gestational ages of 24-28 weeks were recruited. The mean age of the participants was 25.9±5.4 years. The prevalence of GDM was found to be 16.9%. Fasting blood glucose alone correctly diagnosed 87% of the patients. Previous history of macrosomic babies (≥4kg) and history of GDM in previous pregnancies were significantly associated with GDM. Conclusion: The prevalence of GDM is high among antenatal attendees in Federal Medical center, Gusau.