Study of Screening Method of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (DIPSI Criteria) at Tertiary Care Hospital

Introduction: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a pregnancy-related medical complication linked to significant maternal and fetal risks. Several screening methods are available for detecting GDM, including the DIPSI criteria, which use a non-fasting, single-step test measuring 2-hour plasma glucose levels after administering 75 grams of glucose. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of this one-step screening and diagnostic procedure and identify high-risk factors for GDM in the study population. Material and Methods: This prospective study was conducted over a 6-month period, involving 4050 antenatal women attending the outpatient department (OPD) with gestational ages between 24 to 28 weeks. All participants underwent the DIPSI screening test with 75 grams of oral glucose, regardless of their last meal. A structured questionnaire was also administered to collect data on potential risk factors for GDM. Results: The prevalence of GDM, based on the DIPSI criteria, was found to be 9.9%. Identified high-risk factors included age >30 years, previous history of GDM, history of GCA (gestational carbohydrate intolerance), prior birth weight >4 kg, and family history of diabetes. Conclusions: The DIPSI criteria offer a non-fasting, single-step approach to screening and diagnosing GDM, making it a simple, cost-effective, and evidence-based method. Its user-friendly nature and feasibility are particularly beneficial in resource-limited settings, improving accessibility and early detection of GDM.