Knowledge of gestational diabetes mellitus at first consultation in a multi-ethnic pregnant population in the Oslo region, Norway - a cross-sectional study

Objectives: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is an increasing problem among pregnant women globally and is associated with short- and long-term consequences for both mother and newborn. The aim of this study was to investigate knowledge of GDM among a multi-ethnic pregnant population at first consultation for GDM in the Oslo region in Norway. Design: We conducted a cross-sectional study using baseline data from a randomised controlled study performed at five diabetic outpatient clinics (DOC) in the Oslo region. Pregnant women diagnosed with GDM following an Oral Glucose Tolerance test (OGTT) with a 2-hours blood glucose level of >= 9 mmol/l were included. Women filled out a questionnaire on an electronic tablet at the study entry, and additional data were collected through a recruiting form. Descriptive statistics were performed and associations were investigated using Chi-square test and multiple logistic regression analysis. Results: Of 238 women included in the study, 108 (45.4%) were native Norwegian speakers and 130 (54.6%) were non-native Norwegian speakers. 39.5% of the non-native Norwegian speakers were Asian, 22.5% were African, and 15.5% were from Eastern European Countries. Non-native Norwegian speakers were significantly more likely to have poor knowledge of GDM compared to native Norwegian speakers, adjusted OR = 4.5, 95% CI 1.61-12.5. Sensitivity analyses showed this was not due to poor language skills. Conclusions: Ethnic background was associated with the level of knowledge of GDM. Health professionals should be aware of the various knowledge levels concerning GDM and tailor their information towards women's knowledge. Linguistically- and culturally adapted information regarding GDM may improve knowledge gaps among women with immigrant backgrounds.