WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

Satish Kumar Gurjar*, Dr. Babu Lal Sharma, Pramod Bijarnia and Dr. Jogendra Sharma

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a common pregnancy-related complication that poses serious risks to both maternal and fetal health. Frontline healthcare providers, especially female health workers (FHWs), play a vital role in the early detection, management, and education related to GDM. However, their knowledge level can significantly impact maternal care outcomes. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge regarding GDM among female health workers in primary health centers of Shahpura block, Jaipur district, with the aim of developing an educational information booklet based on identified gaps. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 60 female health workers using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. Convenience sampling was used to recruit participants. The tool was validated by experts, and its reliability was confirmed with a KR-20 score of 0.82. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, frequency, percentage) and inferential statistics (Chi-square test) at a 0.05 level of significance. Result: The findings showed that 50% of participants had average knowledge regarding GDM, 25% had good knowledge, and the remaining 25% had poor knowledge. Significant associations were found between knowledge levels and age (p < 0.05), marital status (p < 0.05), years of experience (p < 0.05), and prior attendance in GDM educational programs (p < 0.05). Educational qualification did not show a significant association. Conclusion: The study highlights moderate awareness of GDM among female health workers, with key knowledge gaps influenced by experience and training rather than formal education. Developing and disseminating tailored educational materials like information booklets can strengthen the capacity of frontline health workers to manage GDM more effectively, thereby improving maternal and neonatal outcomes.