Publication:

Prevalence, risk factors and quality of life in gestational diabetes mellitus: a scoping review

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common complications of pregnancy and is associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Its burden is increasing globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Beyond physical health impacts, GDM may also affect the quality of life (QoL) of pregnant women; however, evidence on this aspect remains limited. This scoping review aimed to map existing evidence on the prevalence of GDM, associated risk factors and quality of life among women diagnosed with GDM. The review followed Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Electronic databases including PubMed and Google Scholar were searched for studies published in English between 2010 and 2025. Observational studies, systematic reviews and narrative reviews reporting on prevalence, risk factors or quality of life related to GDM were included. Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Reported prevalence ranged from 9.7%-37.6%, with higher prevalence observed in Asian populations and hospital-based studies. Common risk factors included advanced maternal age, obesity, family history of diabetes, previous GDM and hypertension. None of the included primary studies assessed quality of life using validated instruments. The review concludes that GDM is a growing public health concern, but evidence regarding quality of life among affected women remains scarce, highlighting the need for future research incorporating standardized QoL assessments.