Manuscript Title:

EMPOWERING PREGNANT WOMEN: THE IMPACT OF HEALTH EDUCATION ON SELF-CARE AND OUTCOMES IN GESTATIONAL DIABETES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

Author:

RIFFAT, DATIN Dr. HAFIZAH CHE HASSAN, Dr. FAZIA GHAFFAR

DOI Number:

DOI:10.5281/zenodo.16784238

Published : 2025-08-10

About the author(s)

1. RIFFAT - PhD Candidate, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Lincoln University College, Wisma Lincoln, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
2. DATIN Dr. HAFIZAH CHE HASSAN - Professor, Department of Applied Sciences, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Lincoln University College Malaysia, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.
3. Dr. FAZIA GHAFFAR - HOD/Assistant Professor, Department of Food & Nutrition Sciences, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Pakistan.

Full Text : PDF

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of culturally feasible health education modules on key maternal outcomes, including fasting glucose, postprandial glucose, HbA1c levels, HOMA-IR, and neonatal outcomes such as birth weight, macrosomia, and neonatal hypoglycemia. It also examines self-care practices like dietary adherence and physical activity among women with GDM. Through a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies from 2020 to 2025, the research provides evidence for integrating culturally tailored health education into antenatal care, especially in underprivileged settings. The findings indicate significant improvements in maternal glycemic control and neonatal outcomes, with notable reductions in fasting glucose (MD: -24.07 mg/dL), postprandial glucose (MD: -27.78 mg/dL), and HbA1c levels (MD: -0.8%). Additionally, there were increases in dietary adherence (35%) and physical activity (28%). The study highlights the effectiveness of dietary interventions in reducing neonatal complications, emphasizing the importance of culturally sensitive education in managing GDM and improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes.


Keywords

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, Health Education, Cultural Competency, Glycemic Control, Maternal Health Services, Neonatal Outcomes.