Prevalence and Risk Factors of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Malaysian Antenatal Mothers in North-East Peninsular Malaysia : A Retrospective, Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has a negative impact on prenatal and neonatal outcomes and is a public health concern. The study aims to determine the prevalence of gestational diabetes in Malaysian antenatal mothers and identify risk factors associated with its incidence at one tertiary teaching hospital in Kelantan, Malaysia. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study collected data from antenatal mothers between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation diagnosed with GDM based on the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups criteria between January and February 2021. Eighty-nine antenatal mothers were screened. Results: The mean age of the participants was 32 years (SD = 5.8). GDM prevalence was 33.7%, and having a history of GDM was significantly associated with prevalence (p = 0.016). Chi-square analysis revealed that Kelantanese prenatal mothers with risk factors, particularly those who had previously had GDM, had a significant prevalence of GDM. Conclusion: Hence, population health programs and strategies are required are urgently required to reduce risk and improve the health of future antenatal mothers.