The impact of Protection Motivation Theory grounded messaging on diabetes prevention behaviours following Gestational Diabetes

Women diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes (GDM) are more likely to develop Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM). Despite this risk, few women are engaging in diabetes prevention behaviours. Methods: The Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) was employed to design and evaluate a post-GDM diabetes prevention information session. The utility of this theory in predicting intentions and diabetes prevention behaviours was assessed using regression analysis. Results: Two of the four PMT variables, response efficacy and self efficacy were found to be consistent predictors of intention across most of the recommended behaviours, accounting for between 25% and 77% of the variance in intention. Intention was a less robust predictor of behaviour in this study than observed in the majority of PMT research. Conclusion: The results of this study support the use of diabetes prevention interventions that build self efficacy and help bridge the apparent intention-behaviour gap in women with a recent history of GDM.