The study shows that while their weight has increased significantly over the years, height has not kept pace, leading to a rise in BMI among a nationally representative sample of young Indian women. This trend is consistent across rural and urban areas, and different marital and parity statuses. “Understanding these trends is essential for developing targeted interventions to improve maternal and child health outcomes,” Swapna Deshpande says.
One of the key findings is the association between pre-pregnancy weight, rate of weight gain and the risk of early onset GDM. The study, which was conducted in the city of Pune in the Maharashtra state, highlights that higher pre-pregnancy weight increases the risk of early GDM while maternal height is inversely associated with this risk. This insight is particularly relevant in the context of increasing obesity and GDM in India.
The research also investigates the dietary habits and physical activity levels of pregnant women in the urban slums of Pune. The findings indicate that a significant percentage of these women do not meet the recommended dietary intake, which can adversely affect pregnancy outcomes.
“Promoting healthy dietary practices and regular weight monitoring during pregnancy is crucial for ensuring favourable outcomes for babies,” emphasises Deshpande.
The dissertation not only contributes to the academic understanding of maternal health but also has practical implications for public health initiatives. By addressing the key drivers of weight changes during pregnancy, such as dietary intake and physical activity, the study provides a roadmap for improving maternal and neonatal health in India. The insights gained from this research may also be applicable to South Asian populations more generally, making it a valuable resource for policymakers and healthcare providers worldwide.