Context: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus is associated with an increased risk of maternal and foetal complications. Early diagnosis and management of GDM improves maternal and perinatal outcome; thereby preventing the long term risks of future diabetes in both the mother and her offspring. Aims: Our study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus and associated risk factors in a tertiary care centre in Karnataka. Settings and Design: This was a prospective study carried out in a tertiary care teaching institute in Karnataka. Material and Methods: Eight thirty nine fasting pregnant women with 24-28 weeks of gestation underwent WHO-75 gram OGTT. Proforma with information on demographic characteristics, age, BMI, gravidity, past obstetrical history, past history of gestational diabetes, family history of diabetes was collected. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. Results: GDM was diagnosed in 53 women. Age >25 years, BMI >25 kg/m2, higher gravidity, family history of diabetes, past history of gestational diabetes, past history of intrauterine fetal demise and history of abortions were significantly associated with higher prevalence of GDM. Conclusion: Prevalence of GDM was 6.32% in our study. Appropriate interventions are required for control and risk factor modification.

Keywords: Age; BMI; Gravidity.

Key Message: Education regarding the diabetogenic potential of modifiable risk factors such as raised BMI is essential to prevent long term complications in both mother and offspring.