Prevalence and Associated Demographic Characteristics of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Gaza

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The aim of the study was to identify the prevalence and sociodemographic characteristics of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in Gaza. A retrospective case-control study that included 189 GDM women were compared with 189 non GDM delivered in 2010 in Gaza. The available data were obtained from 2011 United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) primary health care clinics in Gaza. WHO criteria were used for diagnosing GDM. The multivariate logistic regression test was used to identify the odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), and controlling confounder variables. The overall prevalence of GDM women was 1.8%. The mean age and standard deviation for GDM cases was (34.1 yr ±6.56) while for the control group was (34.2 yr ±6.77). The GDM cases showed a similar mean and standard deviation (162.4±5.42) of height in comparison to the control group (162.3 cm ±5.39). The mean and standard deviation of weight (81.1 kg ±13.16) in GDM women was statistically different with a p-value < 0.001 compared to control. The most GDM significant associated demographic factors with a p value <0.005 were low income (OR 0.35, CI 0.14, 0.84) and being overweight before pregnancy (OR 1.07, CI 1.04, 1.09). The prevalence of GDM was found to be average (1.8%) and is increasing. Appropriate interventions are required for individuals matching these socioeconomic characteristics.