PREVALENCE AND IDENTIFICATION OF POTENTIAL PREDICTORS ASSOCIATED WITH GESTATIONAL DIABETES MELLITUS IN NORTH MACEDONIA

Abstract

Introduction: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is defined as the occurrence of diabetes which is discovered during pregnancy. It is a widespread global condition with many maternal and fetal health risks.

Objective: The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence and potential predictors of GDM among a cohort of women from North Macedonia.

Patients and Method: A total number of 154 (143) participants were included in the study. The diagnosis of GDM was made using the International Association of the Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG) criteria. Patients with known diabetes prior to pregnancy, history of GDM, in vitro fertilization (IVF), multiple gestation and severe medical conditions were excluded from the study. The recorded variables were age, nationality, religion, education, parity, family history of diabetes (FHD), pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI), weight gain, smoking and oral contraceptive use. The statistical analysis was done calculating exact logistic regression in “R”.

Results: Significant predictors: For every one-unit increase in BMI, the odds of developing GDM increased by 8.6% (coefficient=0.086, p=0.026). Women with family history of diabetes had 2.74 times higher odds of developing GDM (coefficient=1.008, p=0.011). The Orthodox participants had significantly lower odds of developing GDM compared to the Muslim ones (coefficient=-2.528, p=0.011). Two prior pregnancies raised the odds to 4.70 times higher compared to no prior pregnancies (coefficient=1.547, p=0.042).

Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of addressing pre-pregnancy BMI and screening individuals with family history of diabetes. The high prevalence of GDM suggests a need for public health strategies focusing on preconception care, lifestyle interventions and regular screening during pregnancy.