Identification of factors associated with a high risk of developing gestational diabetes

Objectives: The main objective is to determine the current prevalence of recognised risk factors for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in our region, and to define the profile of patients at higher risk of developing this condition. We also investigate patient acceptability of the screening tests. Material and methods: This is an ambispective study with 1,448 pregnant women recruited between December 2017 and July 2019 from a single centre. Inclusion criteria were no diabetes mellitus prior to the pregnancy, no history of GDM in any previous pregnancy, no history of bariatric surgery before the pregnancy, and GDM screening tests performed. Results: The prevalence of GDM was 6.7%. Risk factors associated with development of GDM were: age >= 27.5 years (OR: 3.8; 95% CI: 2.01-9.16); BMI >= 28.5 kg/m(2) (OR: 2.3; 95% CI: 1.47-3.59); history of diabetes mellitus in first-degree relatives (OR: 2.3; 95% CI: 1.5-3.66); and multiple pregnancy (OR: 2.8; 95% CI: 0.86-6.36); Prevalence of GDM increased with the number of risk factors presented by patients: from 1.4% with no risk factor, to 25.2% with 3. The O'Sullivan test (50 g glucose) and oral glucose tolerance test (100 g glucose) were perceived as "unpleasant" by 26.8% and 65.4% of patients, respectively. Conclusions: Age >= 27.5 years, BMI >= 28.5 kg/m(2), history of diabetes mellitus in first-degree relatives, and multiple pregnancy are factors related to an increased risk of GDM; these factors would be enough to identify most pregnant women developing GDM. Our findings may be used to improve programmes aimed at early diagnosis of gestational diabetes and supporting high-risk mothers in antenatal care. (C) 2022 Elsevier Espana, S.L.U. All rights reserved.