Risk Factors for the Incidence of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Pregnant Women in the Third Trimester in Aceh Besar Regency, Aceh Province, and Rejang Lebong Regency, Bengkulu Province, Indonesia

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a growing global health problem, with Indonesia ranking fifth worldwide. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a serious pregnancy complication that poses both acute and long-term risks to mothers and infants. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between risk factors and the incidence of GDM in third-trimester pregnant women. Methods: This was an analytical survey with a cross-sectional design conducted in Aceh Besar Regency and Rejang Lebong Regency from April to September 2024. The study population included all third-trimester pregnant women in these areas. A total of 104 samples were selected using a purposive sampling technique. Data were collected through random blood glucose (RBG) testing and questionnaires to gather information on age, family history of DM, a previous history of GDM, and Body Mass Index (BMI). The data were analyzed using the chi-square test and logistic regression to identify the dominant risk factors. Results: The analysis revealed that several factors were significantly associated with the incidence of GDM. Mothers aged 45 years or older had a 3.18 times higher risk (OR=3.18; p=0.042), and a family history of DM increased the risk by 2.96 times (OR=2.96; p=0.031). A previous history of GDM was the most dominant predictor, with a risk increase of 6.65 times (OR=6.65; p=0.004). Additionally, obesity significantly increased the risk of GDM by more than fivefold (OR=5.73; p=0.048). Conclusion: This study confirms that advanced maternal age, genetic history, a previous history of GDM, and obesity are the primary risk factors for GDM in pregnant women. These findings are crucial for guiding early detection programs and targeted interventions in high-diabetes-prevalence areas to reduce GDM-related complications and the overall public health burden