Prevalence and Risk Factors of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Yazd Province, Iran

The global prevalence of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is increasing with an alarming rate. It commonly manifests during the third trimester of pregnancy and may lead to multiple maternal complications. Neonates of women with GDM are more likely to suffer from metabolic problems later. Considering the importance of GDM, this study was performed with aim to determine the prevalence and risk factors of GDM in Yazd province.

This cross-sectional study was carried out on 3202 pregnant women in Yazd province from March 2008 to March 2011. The Glucose Challenge Test and Oral Glucose Tolerance Test were used to diagnose GDM. The interpretation was based on Coustan-Carpenter criteria. Sampling was done in a full-census manner. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 19). Logistic Regression was used to calculate the Odds Ratio at 95% Confidence Interval to estimate the independent association of different risk factors with GDM.

The overall prevalence of GDM in this study was 3.3%. The mean age of participants was 27.7±5.7 years. Identified risk factors were age (OR: 1.1, p <0·001), BMI (OR: 1.1, p <0·001), history of abnormality in neonates (OR: 2.84, P=0·036), macrosomia (OR: 3.19, P=0·004), and diabetes in the family (OR: 2.9, p <0·001).

Among the risk factors identified for GDM, BMI is the only modifiable factor, which can implicate the development of gestational diabetes mellitus. Public management of weight, and avoiding a sedentary lifestyle can reduce the risk of GDM. It is also suggested that it is better to plan for pregnancy at younger ages.