Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Associated Health Risk Outcomes in Mothers and Neonates

Globally, Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) pregnancy complication is estimated at 200,000 cases annually with serious consequences for maternal and neonatal health. A cohort study to establish GDM risks and associated health outcomes was conducted among 238 women attending an antenatal clinic in selected health facilities in Nairobi, Kenya. Results indicated that mothers with GDM are four times more likely to have varied physical discomforts and complicated deliveries as a result of high neonatal birth weight. There is a need to advocate for the inclusion of diabetes testing and management as part of Kenya's Essential Health Services Package to realize positive health outcomes among women.