Evidence Gap and Knowledge Map of Early Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (eGDM) Screening in India: A Scoping Review

Early Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (eGDM) is an emerging public health issue in India, characterised by varying prevalence estimates, healthcare access disparities, and inconsistent screening practices. This scoping review aims to map the existing literature on eGDM screening in India, identify evidence gaps, and inform future research, policy formulation, and resource allocation.

The review, guided by the Arksey and O’Malley framework, includes studies published between 2000 and 2024 that highlight significant eGDM screening and management disparities across public and private healthcare settings, rural-urban locations, and socioeconomic groups. Several screening initiatives have been introduced, but challenges persist, including a lack of standardised diagnostic criteria, low healthcare provider awareness, limited accessibility of screening, and sociocultural barriers. Economic evaluations suggest that eGDM screening can be cost-effective, yet India-specific assessments remain scarce. The integration of eGDM screening within India’s national healthcare programs, including NPCDCS, remains minimal. There is a significant gap in knowledge translation, with limited efforts in adapting research findings into policy and practice.

Addressing these challenges requires robust policy and programmatic responses, including standardised diagnostic guidelines, improved healthcare provider training, equitable service access, and culturally sensitive community engagement. Strengthening research-to-policy pathways is critical to improving eGDM screening and outcomes across India.