IMPACT OF GESTATIONAL DIABETES HISTORY ON WOMEN'S SELF-RATED ORAL HEALTH: IMPLICATIONS FOR PHYSICAL WELLNESS AND SPORTS PARTICIPATION

Abstract

Aims: To evaluate the relationship between a history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and self-rated oral health (SROH) using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and explore its implications for physical wellness and participation in sports and physical activity. Methods: Data from NHANES (2009–2014) were analyzed, including 4,767 women. GDM status was determined by responses to the question, "Have you ever had gestational diabetes?" SROH was assessed via self-report. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between GDM and SROH, adjusting for confounders such as age, race, poverty income ratio, education, body mass index, hypertension, smoking, periodontal status, oral self-care, and history of periodontal treatment. Results: Among the 4,767 women analyzed, SROH was significantly associated with GDM status. After adjusting for confounders, a history of GDM was associated with poorer SROH (odds ratio 1.441, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.151–1.803, P = 0.001; odds ratio 1.477, 95% CI 1.158–1.883, P = 0.002; and odds ratio 1.480, 95% CI 1.156–1.895, P = 0.002, respectively). Differences in periodontal status and oral health were observed between women with and without a history of GDM. Conclusions: Women with a history of GDM reported worse SROH compared to those without, even after controlling for confounding factors. Poor oral health may affect overall physical wellness, potentially impacting participation in sports and physical activity. These findings highlight the importance of integrating oral health services into comprehensive wellness programs, particularly for women recovering from GDM, to enhance physical health and promote active lifestyles. Further research is needed to explore the long-term impact of oral health on functional performance and physical activity engagement.