Gestational diabetes mellitus: An educational opportunity

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) currently affects 7% of all pregnancies (Setji et al, 2005). In particular, gestational impaired glucose tolerance is associated with increased rates of prematurity, large for gestational age infants, macrosomic infants and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit for 2 days or longer (Ostlund et al, 2003). Using a validated survey tool (Carolan et al, 2010), this American study assessed the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of pregnant women about this condition. Questions addressed medical risk, prevention and outcomes of GDM as well as nutritional and exercise benefits. This article also discusses the implications of these findings for future educational programmes.