Knowledge, Attitude and Practices among Women Attending Antenatal Clinic towards Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Mufulira Town, Zambia

Sinkala Yizukanji, MBChB; Victor Mwanakasale, Ph.D.

Authors

Sinkala Yizukanji, MBChB Michael Chilufya Sata School of Medicine, Copperbelt University, P.O. Box 71191, Ndola 10101
Victor Mwanakasale, Ph.D. Michael Chilufya Sata School of Medicine, Copperbelt University, P.O. Box 71191, Ndola 10101

Keywords:

Knowledge, Attitude, practices, Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), Awareness

Abstract

Introduction: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) may be defined as hyperglycaemia induced by pregnancy. Previously done researches have shown that little is known about GDM and that correct knowledge, attitudes and practices can lead to improved outcome of pregnancy and improved quality of life for both mother and child. There is little Documentation of this condition in our country Zambia. The aim of this study is to establish the awareness, knowledge levels, attitude and practices of pregnant women attending antenatal clinical care and to inform relevant authorities.

Method: The survey sample comprised 208 pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in Mufulira at Clinic 3, Tang-up Camp Hospital and Kamuchanga District Hospital. A structured questionnaire was administered after obtaining written consent and the data analysed using SPSS 16.0.

Key Results: 64.4 % (134) of participants were not aware of GDM. On average, the level of knowledge, attitude, and practices were 6.54 (out of 15), 15.9 (out of 20), and 2.62 (out of 5), respectively. Level of education was the greatest predictor of awareness of GDM. There was a correlation between knowledge with gravidity and parity. Level of education and knowledge were great predictors of attitude and knowledge score was a good indicator of good practices.

Conclusions: From the surveyed population, low awareness of GDM was observed. And from those aware of GDM, low knowledge levels, positive attitude, and inadequate practices were observed. Lack of educational program on diabetes in pregnancy was the contributing factor. The way forward is setting up a structured educational program on gestational diabetes and its complications to be a component of antenatal and child health clinics to disseminate and improve the knowledge among mothers which eventually will influence attitude and practices.

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