Effectiveness of a Health Education Module on Glycemic Control among Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Patients in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Abstract

 Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a significant public health concern in developing countries, including Pakistan. Effective management of GDM through health education and self-care practices is crucial to improving maternal and neonatal outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a health education module on glycemic control among GDM patients in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A quasi-experimental pre-post study design was conducted on 220 GDM patients, divided into 110 cases (intervention group) and 110 controls (non-intervention group). The health education module included dietary management, physical activity, glucose monitoring, and psychological support. Baseline and post-intervention data were collected using a structured questionnaire and clinical measurements. Paired t-tests and independent t-tests were used to evaluate the changes in glycemic control. The intervention group showed a significant improvement in glycemic control compared to the control group. The mean fasting blood glucose levels decreased from baseline to post-intervention in the intervention group (p < 0.05). Self-care scores related to dietary management, physical activity, and glucose monitoring improved significantly post-intervention (p < 0.05). The health education module effectively improved glycemic control among GDM patients. Incorporating structured health education into routine antenatal care can improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes.