Assessment of Knowledge and Practices Related to Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Among Pregnant Women in Al-Hilla City, Iraq
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Objective: To assess pregnant women’s knowledge and practices regarding gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), examine associations with demographic characteristics, and identify key sources of GDM information in Al-Hilla City, Iraq.
Methods and Materials: A facility-based cross-sectional study with analytic components was conducted in Primary Health Care Centers in Al-Hilla City (November 2024–February 2025). A total of 345 pregnant women (18–45 years) were recruited after informed consent. Data were collected using a validated interviewer-administered questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, GDM knowledge (Yes/No/Don’t know), practices (3-point Likert scale), and information sources. Knowledge and practice scores were computed and classified using mean cut-offs. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS (v25); chi-square tested associations, and Spearman correlation assessed the relationship between knowledge and practice (p≤0.05).
Findings: Most participants were aged 21–30 years (60.6%), urban residents (86.7%), and housewives (70.1%). Based on scoring criteria, 71.6% demonstrated adequate knowledge, and 88.4% demonstrated adequate practices regarding GDM. Knowledge scores were positively correlated with practice scores (r=0.139, p<0.05). Major information sources reported by participants were family/friends and health-related sources (health institutions/health workers).
Conclusion: Pregnant women attending PHCCs in Al-Hilla generally showed adequate knowledge and practices regarding GDM, with a modest but significant knowledge–practice relationship. Strengthening structured, facility-based education and integrating GDM messages into local health-promotion programs are recommended.
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