Prevalence and risk factors associated with gestational diabetes mellitus among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Mengo Hospital, Kampala, Uganda. A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a significant public health problem associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. This study aims to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of gestational diabetes mellitus among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic at Mengo Hospital in Kampala District. Methods A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 pregnant women attending antenatal care at Mengo Hospital. Participants were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and laboratory testing using the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) based on WHO 2013 diagnostic criteria. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and presented using tables, charts, bar graphs, and descriptive statistics. Result The prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus among the study participants was 12%. A higher proportion of GDM cases occurred among women aged 35 years and above (45%). Obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) accounted for 15.6% of all GDM cases. Other important factors included family history of diabetes (58.3%), multiparity (50%), previous macrosomia (41.7%), previous history of GDM (33.3%), and hypertension (41.7%). Most GDM cases were observed among married women and those with tertiary education. Conclusion The prevalence of GDM at Mengo Hospital is notably high. Both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors significantly contribute to its occurrence, highlighting the need for routine screening and targeted interventions during antenatal care. Recommendations Routine universal screening for GDM should be strengthened during ANC visits, with emphasis on high-risk groups such as older mothers, obese women, and those with a positive family history of diabetes.