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Barriers and facilitators to diabetes prevention support for women in Malaysia with gestational diabetes mellitus: A qualitative study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: To explore the barriers and facilitators to diabetes prevention support among pregnant women in Malaysia. A qualitative study using individual in-depth interviews, analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Public health clinics and one central government hospital in Selangor, Malaysia. Women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus. Sixteen women aged 26 to 41 years, from three different ethnic groups (Malay, Chinese, and Indian) participated in the study. Key barriers to diabetes prevention support included limited access to relevant and usable information; competing health needs during pregnancy; social and cultural priorities overriding self-care; and structural constraints. Facilitators included intrinsic motivation and self-awareness; awareness of future diabetes risk; social and family support; access to trusted and culturally relevant information. All participants reported challenges in maintaining healthy lifestyle practices, particularly related to physical activity and diet during pregnancy. Information on diabetes prevention support was obtained from various sources, including healthcare providers, online platforms, and family members. The findings from this study have significant implications for enhancing diabetes prevention support and informing the potential development of tailored diabetes prevention interventions for women in Malaysia. • Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common conditions in pregnancy and is notably higher in certain ethnic groups, particularly among South Asian • We have identified barriers and facilitators of diabetes prevention support during pregnancy for women with GDM from diverse ethnic groups in Malaysia. • For women with GDM in Selango, Malaysia there is a lack of information provided by health care providers on diabetes prevention with a clear need to upskill providers. • Culturally tailored interventions delivered via online platforms can enhance engagement among women in physical activities and dietary management, addressing specific cultural needs and preferences. • Social norms and family environment play a critical role in facilitating behaviour changes during pregnancy, highlighting the importance of familial support in promoting lifestyle.

Source: PEC Innovation

DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2025.100438