1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of Study
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a form of glucose intolerance that occurs during pregnancy and typically resolves after childbirth. The condition poses significant health risks for both mothers and their infants, including increased chances of preterm birth, cesarean delivery, and long-term obesity and diabetes for both (Dodd et al., 2014). The prevalence of GDM has been on the rise globally, influenced by factors such as increasing rates of obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and the aging population (Mazzanti et al., 2019). Studies indicate that GDM affects approximately 2% to 10% of pregnancies in the United States and similar rates are observed in other developed nations (Ferrara, 2007). The attitudes of pregnant women towards the treatment and management of GDM significantly influence their compliance with medical recommendations. Women's perceptions of the risks associated with GDM, the importance of lifestyle modifications, and the necessity of blood glucose monitoring can affect their willingness to engage in self-care behaviors (Liu et al., 2020).
A positive attitude towards treatment options, including dietary changes and physical activity, has been linked to better management of blood glucose levels (Hod et al., 2016). However, negative attitudes or misconceptions can lead to non-compliance, increasing the likelihood of adverse outcomes. Additionally, cultural beliefs and societal factors play a role in shaping the attitudes of pregnant women towards GDM management. For instance, women from different cultural backgrounds may have varying beliefs about dietary practices and health interventions during pregnancy, which can influence their willingness to adopt recommended changes (Santos et al., 2020).
Gestational Diabetes is a form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy and is characterized by high blood sugar levels that develop during pregnancy but usually resolve after giving birth. It is crucial to monitor and manage gestational diabetes to reduce the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby (American Diabetes Association, 2020). Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a significant public health concern, affecting a considerable number of pregnant women globally. It is characterized by glucose intolerance that begins or is first recognized during pregnancy, often leading to complications for both the mother and the infant (American Diabetes Association, 2018). The prevalence of GDM varies widely depending on geographic location, ethnicity, and screening practices, with estimates suggesting that it affects approximately 2% to 10% of pregnancies in the United States alone (Ferrara, 2007).
Women diagnosed with GDM face several challenges, including lifestyle modifications, monitoring blood glucose levels, and potential pharmacological interventions (Dodd et al., 2014). These management strategies are essential to mitigate the risks associated with GDM, such as macrosomia, preterm birth, and the development of type 2 diabetes later in life (Naylor & Imes, 2016). Research has shown that the beliefs and attitudes of pregnant women regarding GDM significantly influence their adherence to recommended management strategies (Liu et al., 2020). Positive attitudes towards dietary changes and physical activity have been associated with better glycemic control and improved outcomes for both mother and child (Hod et al., 2016). Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the prevalence and attitude of pregnant women towards the treatment and management of gestational diabetes.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that many women may lack awareness of the implications of GDM for their health and that of their unborn child, leading to inadequate compliance with recommended treatment and management strategies (Bennett et al., 2010). Furthermore, insufficient access to education and healthcare resources also contributes to the problem. Many pregnant women lack the necessary support and information to manage their condition effectively, particularly in low-resource settings (Torloni et al., 2009). It is against the backdrop that this study seeks to address these problems by evaluating the prevalence and attitude of pregnant women towards the treatment and management of gestational diabetes.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence and attitude of pregnant women towards the treatment and management of gestational diabetes. The specific objectives of the study include:
- To explore the relationship between the prevalence of GDM and the adherence to recommended treatment and management practices among pregnant women.
- To identify the factors influencing the attitudes of pregnant women regarding GDM management, including healthcare access, and educational resources.
- To evaluate the attitudes of pregnant women towards the treatment options available for managing gestational diabetes.
- To determine the prevalence of gestational diabetes among pregnant women in the selected population.
- To assess the level of awareness and knowledge of gestational diabetes among pregnant women.
- To provide recommendations for healthcare professionals and policymakers on enhancing educational programs and support systems for pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes.
1.5 Research Questions
The research questions for the study on the prevalence and attitude of pregnant women towards the treatment and management of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are as follows:
- Is there a relationship between the prevalence of gestational diabetes and the adherence to recommended management practices among pregnant women?
- What is the prevalence rate of gestational diabetes among pregnant women in the selected population?
- What is the level of awareness and knowledge of gestational diabetes among pregnant women?
- How do pregnant women perceive the treatment options available for managing gestational diabetes?
- What factors influence the attitudes of pregnant women towards the management and treatment of gestational diabetes?
- How do demographic factors, such as age, education level, and socioeconomic status, affect the attitudes of pregnant women towards the treatment and management of gestational diabetes?
1.6 Significance of Study
The significance of this study extends to various stakeholders involved in the management and treatment of gestational diabetes.
- Healthcare providers will gain valuable insights into the attitudes and knowledge of pregnant women regarding gestational diabetes, enabling them to develop targeted educational programs and interventions.
- Public health officials will benefit from understanding the prevalence and attitudes towards gestational diabetes, allowing them to create effective awareness campaigns that promote healthy behaviors among pregnant women.
- Researchers will find the study's findings useful for identifying gaps in existing literature and laying the groundwork for future studies that explore the complexities of gestational diabetes management.
- Expectant mothers will benefit from improved educational resources and support systems as a result of the findings, leading to better health outcomes for themselves and their babies.
- Finally, policymakers will use the insights gathered from this study to inform regulations and guidelines that prioritize maternal health and ensure access to necessary healthcare services for pregnant women at risk of gestational diabetes.
1.7 Scope of Study
The scope of the research is focused on the prevalence and attitude of pregnant women towards the treatment and management of gestational diabetes.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, there were some problems encountered which stood as limitations to the research work. Some of the limitations include:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Initial Cooperation Delay from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
1.9 Definition of Terms
Prevalence: It refers to the proportion of a population that exhibits a particular characteristic or condition at a specific time. in the context of this study, prevalence specifically relates to the number of pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes within a defined population (Schmidt et al., 2018).
Gestational Diabetes: It is a form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy and is characterized by high blood sugar levels that develop during pregnancy but usually resolve after giving birth. It is crucial to monitor and manage gestational diabetes to reduce the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby (American Diabetes Association, 2020).
Attitude: It encompasses the beliefs, feelings, and behavioral tendencies that individuals have towards a specific issue or condition. In this study, the attitudes of pregnant women towards the treatment and management of gestational diabetes include their perceptions of the seriousness of the condition, their beliefs about treatment efficacy, and their willingness to engage in recommended management practices (Ajzen, 1991).
Management: in the context of gestational diabetes refers to the strategies and interventions employed to control blood glucose levels and ensure a healthy pregnancy. This includes dietary modifications, physical activity, blood sugar monitoring, and, in some cases, medication (Wang et al., 2019).
Treatment: It encompasses the medical and therapeutic approaches used to address gestational diabetes, including lifestyle changes, nutritional counseling, and pharmacological interventions, aimed at achieving optimal health outcomes for the mother and child (Morrison et al., 2020).
