Micronutrient and Haemato-biochemical Predictors of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM): A Case-control Study in Middle and Northern Ghana

Background Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), commonly diagnosed through an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), is a widespread pregnancy complication. This study addresses the gap in research on micronutrients and haemato-biochemical factors in GDM in Ghana, exploring these parameters as predictors among pregnant women. Methods In this prospective case-control study, 180 pregnant women, comprising 130 with gestational diabetes and 50 without (controls), were investigated at Tamale and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospitals. Socio-demographics, anthropometrics, and nutrition data were gathered through a questionnaire; blood samples were analysed for hemato-biochemical parameters and micronutrients. Statistical analysis employed SPSS version 26.0 and R with P < 0.05. Results This study found ‘dawadawa' intake (aOR = 7.41, 95% CI: (2.40-22.89); p=0.001), Zinc intake (aOR = 3.57, 95% CI: (1.95-6.53); p < 0.0001) and increasing platelet count (aOR = 1.12, 95%, p=0.009) independently predict GDM. However, late gestational age of 36-41 weeks, intake of only iron (aOR = 0.02, 95% CI: (0.00-0.15); p < 0.0001) and liver intake (aOR = 0.23, 95% CI: (0.09-0.60); p=0.001) independently decreased the chances of GDM by 80%, 98% and 77% respectively. In addition, chromium supplementation independently decreased GDM. A significant positive weak correlation was observed between red blood cell count (r = 0.196, p=0.025) and fasting blood sugar. Conclusion The current findings emphasize the need for effective strategies with a call for midwives to provide education and advocate dietary and behavioural adjustments for pregnant women.