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KNOWLEDGE ON CAUSES AND PREVENTION OF GESTATIONAL DIABETES AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN ATTENDING ANTENATAL CLINIC IN EHIME MBANO LGA
Abstract
In this quantitative survey research study, a structured questionnaire was employed to gather data from a sample of 120 respondents in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area, Nigeria. The research design aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness of gestational diabetes (GDM) among pregnant women in the region. SPSS 27, a statistical analysis tool, was utilized to compile and analyze the collected data. The study included the application of t-tests to test the hypotheses formulated to evaluate the level of GDM awareness among the participants. The findings of the study revealed that the majority of pregnant women in Ehime Mbano LGA exhibited a satisfactory understanding of what GDM is, with a significant proportion indicating agreement with statements related to their knowledge and awareness. This extends to their perception of the factors increasing the risk of GDM and the influence of this knowledge on their health-related behaviors during pregnancy. Additionally, respondents reported receiving sufficient information about GDM through educational programs. The one-sample t-tests conducted to test the hypotheses revealed that the mean scores of the respondents significantly differed from the assumed mean of 0 for all hypotheses. Based on a critical table value of 2.92, all the hypotheses were rejected, signifying that there is a substantial level of knowledge and awareness regarding GDM among pregnant women in Ehime Mbano LGA. This suggests that the local health education and awareness programs have been successful in conveying information about GDM to the target population. In conclusion, the study highlights the generally positive knowledge and awareness levels among pregnant women in the region regarding gestational diabetes. The results indicate that educational programs and interventions have been effective in conveying information to this vulnerable population, contributing to their understanding of GDM. These findings underscore the importance of ongoing health education initiatives to enhance awareness and, ultimately, maternal and child health outcomes. As a result, this study recommends the continued implementation and enhancement of education and awareness programs in Ehime Mbano LGA to ensure that pregnant women remain well-informed about GDM. Moreover, expanding the study to more regions and diversifying the sample would provide a more comprehensive understanding of GDM awareness in Nigeria. Such efforts should be combined with qualitative research methods to uncover the deeper socio-cultural and economic factors influencing GDM awareness and behavior. Overall, this research contributes to the broader discourse on maternal and child health, emphasizing the significance of knowledge and awareness in improving health outcomes during pregnancy.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.0 Introduction
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy, affecting women who have never had diabetes before but develop high blood sugar levels during pregnancy. It is a significant health concern globally, as it can lead to adverse outcomes for both the mother and the baby. Understanding the causes and prevention of gestational diabetes is crucial in providing effective prenatal care and promoting the well-being of pregnant women and their infants. This thesis aims to investigate the knowledge of causes and prevention of gestational diabetes among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area (LGA), Nigeria.
1.1 Background to the Study
Gestational diabetes has become a major public health issue, as it is on the rise worldwide. This condition poses several risks to both the mother and the developing fetus, including increased chances of maternal high blood pressure, cesarean section delivery, and macrosomia (large birth weight) in newborns (World Health Organization, 1999; Hartling et al., 2012). Furthermore, children born to mothers with gestational diabetes have an increased risk of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life (Alejandro et al., 2020). This presents a cycle of health issues that transcends generations and adds to the urgency of understanding and addressing gestational diabetes.
The prevalence of gestational diabetes varies by region, with some areas experiencing higher rates than others. In Nigeria, where this study is focused, there is a rising concern about the increasing prevalence of gestational diabetes (Muche et al., 2019). Factors such as genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices, and access to healthcare services all play a role in the development and management of this condition (Plows et al., 2018). Pregnant women, especially those attending antenatal clinics, are a vulnerable population and a primary focus of efforts to reduce the impact of gestational diabetes. Early detection, proper education, and effective prevention strategies can significantly reduce the burden of gestational diabetes in this population. However, the success of these strategies depends on the level of knowledge that pregnant women have regarding the causes and prevention of gestational diabetes.
The Ehime Mbano Local Government Area, located in Imo State, Nigeria, has a population that faces unique challenges in terms of healthcare access, education, and awareness. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the knowledge of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in this region to determine the extent of their understanding of the causes and prevention of gestational diabetes (Muche et al., 2020).
In conclusion, gestational diabetes is a global health concern with repercussions for both mothers and their offspring (Bellamy et al., 2009). The prevalence of this condition varies by region and is influenced by genetic, lifestyle, and healthcare access factors (Plows et al., 2018). Pregnant women attending antenatal clinics are particularly vulnerable to gestational diabetes, and their knowledge about the condition plays a crucial role in prevention and management.
In the context of Nigeria, particularly in regions like Ehime Mbano LGA, addressing the growing prevalence of gestational diabetes is a significant public health priority (Muche et al., 2019). Tailoring interventions to the specific needs of this population is essential, as the challenges they face may differ from those in more urbanized areas.
As this study progresses, it will provide valuable insights into the knowledge of causes and prevention of gestational diabetes among pregnant women in Ehime Mbano LGA (Muche et al., 2020). The findings will contribute to the broader efforts to improve maternal and child health outcomes and inform the development of evidence-based policies and programs to tackle gestational diabetes effectively in the region and beyond.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The rising prevalence of gestational diabetes poses a significant challenge in the field of maternal and child health. Gestational diabetes is associated with various adverse outcomes for both mothers and their offspring, such as maternal high blood pressure, cesarean section deliveries, macrosomia in newborns, and the increased risk of type 2 diabetes and obesity in children (World Health Organization, 1999; Alejandro et al., 2020). In Nigeria, a country with a growing concern about the increasing prevalence of gestational diabetes (Muche et al., 2019), the impact on maternal and child health is a cause for alarm.
One of the key factors in addressing gestational diabetes is the knowledge and awareness of pregnant women, particularly those attending antenatal clinics. Early detection, proper education, and effective prevention strategies are pivotal in mitigating the burden of gestational diabetes (Bellamy et al., 2009). However, the effectiveness of these strategies depends on the level of knowledge possessed by pregnant women regarding the causes and prevention of gestational diabetes. It is crucial to understand the extent of their comprehension to design targeted interventions that can positively influence their behaviors and outcomes (Muche et al., 2020).
The Ehime Mbano Local Government Area in Imo State, Nigeria, presents a unique set of challenges related to healthcare access, education, and awareness (Beyene et al., 2023). Assessing the knowledge of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in this region is essential. This assessment will reveal the existing gaps in their understanding of gestational diabetes, its causes, and preventive measures. Identifying these gaps is a vital step in tailoring interventions and educational programs to the specific needs of this population, considering the local context and challenges they face (Egan & Dunne, 2020).
Therefore, the problem under investigation is the insufficient knowledge of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in the Ehime Mbano Local Government Area in Nigeria regarding the causes and prevention of gestational diabetes. This lack of awareness can hinder efforts to reduce the prevalence and impact of gestational diabetes in this population, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted education and intervention programs.
1.3 Purpose of the Study
The primary purpose of this study is to assess the knowledge of causes and prevention of gestational diabetes among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area. This overarching goal can be divided into four specific objectives:
- To determine the level of knowledge among pregnant women in Ehime Mbano LGA regarding the causes of gestational diabetes.
- To evaluate the extent to which pregnant women in the area are informed about the preventive measures for gestational diabetes.
- To assess the disparities in access to healthcare services and information that may affect the knowledge of pregnant women about gestational diabetes.
- To explore the sociodemographic factors that correlate with the level of knowledge about gestational diabetes among pregnant women.
1.4 Relevance of the Study
The relevance of this study is multifaceted, encompassing both local and global contexts. First, at the local level, the findings of this research will provide valuable insights into the knowledge and awareness of gestational diabetes among pregnant women in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area (LGA). This information holds critical importance for local healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations involved in maternal and child health. It will assist them in the development and implementation of targeted interventions and educational programs to effectively address the issue of gestational diabetes within the specific context of Ehime Mbano LGA.
Furthermore, the significance of this study extends beyond local boundaries to the global stage. Gestational diabetes is not a challenge confined to Nigeria; it is a global concern affecting women worldwide. By investigating the knowledge gaps and disparities in access to information and care in this study, it can make a substantial contribution to the global discourse on improving the management of gestational diabetes and reducing the associated health risks. The insights gained can shed light on strategies and approaches that can be applied in various international settings to enhance awareness and healthcare practices related to gestational diabetes.
In terms of maternal and child health, the study’s outcomes can have a profound impact. A deeper understanding of gestational diabetes among pregnant women can lead to earlier detection and more effective management of the condition. This, in turn, can significantly reduce complications and risks for both the mother and the newborn. The potential improvements in maternal and child health outcomes underscore the vital role this research can play in enhancing the well-being of these vulnerable populations.
Moreover, the findings of this study can directly inform the development of evidence-based policies and programs targeted at preventing and managing gestational diabetes. Policymakers at both the local and national levels can use the insights garnered from this research to make informed decisions regarding healthcare infrastructure and educational initiatives. This, in turn, can contribute to more effective and efficient healthcare services and interventions, thus benefiting pregnant women and their children.
Finally, this study represents a valuable contribution to the broader body of knowledge on gestational diabetes, particularly within the Nigerian context and less urbanized regions like Ehime Mbano LGA. It aids in filling gaps in the understanding of healthcare disparities and highlights the pivotal role of knowledge in shaping health behaviors and outcomes. The research findings have the potential to guide further studies and serve as a reference point for researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers interested in maternal and child health, diabetes management, and healthcare equity.