Aims: The Australian Pacific community, which include Samoans, have a disproportionately higher incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and are three time more likely to develop GDM compared to Australian born women. This study explored the perceptions of risks of developing GDM, GDM experiences and attitudes towards lifestyle behaviour change, among Samoan women.
Methods: A purposive sample of Samoan women aged ≥18 years with a history of GDM or at risk of GDM were recruited through three churches in South Western Sydney (SWS) and via social media. Women were invited to take part in either one-on-one semi-structured interviews or focus groups. Discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. Data were thematically analysed to identify recurring patterns using Quirkos software.
Results: One focus group with four women and 12 individual semi-structured interviews were conducted. Mean age was 39±8.4 (range 19-51) years. Eight women had a history of GDM (one diagnosed with type 2 diabetes seven years after her GDM diagnosis), one had type 2 diabetes and seven no GDM history of GDM. Common themes identified were lack of awareness and understanding of GDM, perception that GDM was a common occurrence during pregnancy, mental distress and discrimination by health care professionals. While most women acknowledged that GDM was a major health issue for Samoan women, cultural expectations and family responsibilities were associated with struggles to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Most women however, expressed the need for more awareness around GDM in the Samoan community and cultural training for health care professionals.
Discussion: These preliminary data suggest that GDM is a health concern for Australian Samoan women. Culturally tailored education and health promotion strategies to reduce the impact of GDM among Australian Samoans are needed.