Associated Factors and Clinical Characteristics of Diabetes among Pregnant Women in Sulaimani City: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with significant maternal and neonatal complications and represents an increasing public health concern worldwide. Objectives: To describe the clinical characteristics and maternal profiles of pregnant women with diabetes mellitus in Sulaimani City. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2023 to March 2024 at Sulaimani Maternity Hospital, Iraq. A total of 100 pregnant women diagnosed with diabetes during pregnancy (GDM, type 1, or type 2 diabetes) according to NICE criteria were recruited using convenience sampling. Data were collected through structured face-to-face interviews using a validated questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, obstetric history, lifestyle factors, body mass index (BMI), comorbidities, and awareness. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 22. Associations were examined using the chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test where appropriate, with p ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 100 pregnant women were included in the study, with a mean age of 34.18 ± 5.76 years. Most participants were aged 26–35 years (45%) and 36–45 years (50%), were non-employed (84%), and belonged to the middle-income group (75%). The majority were Kurdish (97%) and multigravida (91%), with 72% in the third trimester of pregnancy. Regarding knowledge of diabetes risk factors, 11% reported good knowledge, 21% moderate knowledge, 38% limited knowledge, and 30% reported no knowledge. In terms of awareness, 39% were well aware, 45% somewhat aware, and 16% were not aware of diabetes-related risks. A significant association was observed between parity and type of diabetes (p = 0.024), while no significant associations were found with other maternal characteristics (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Among pregnant women with diabetes in Sulaimani City, overweight status, unhealthy dietary habits, limited awareness, and low physical activity were frequently observed characteristics. A statistically significant association was identified only between parity and type of diabetes. Strengthening educational programs and promoting healthy lifestyle practices during pregnancy may help improve maternal health outcomes.