Vitamin D Deficiency and Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Western Countries: A Scoping Review

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a prevalent pregnancy complication globally. Maternal vitamin D deficiency has been linked to the risk of GDM. The aim of this study was to explore and synthesise current evidence on the association between vitamin D deficiency and the development of gestational diabetes in Western countries. Methods: A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodological framework. Relevant studies were identified through a comprehensive search across seven databases: ProQuest Public Health, Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, The Lancet, BMC Public Health, the International Journal of Women's Health, and Scopus. Studies were included based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria relevant to the research question. The review followed the JBI protocol, and the PRISMA flowchart was used to guide and visualise the study selection process. Results: Nineteen studies were included in the final analysis, comprising research predominantly from Australia (5), the United States (5), and Canada (4). The findings indicate a notable association between vitamin D deficiency and GDM risk, moderated by factors such as maternal age, ethnicity, seasonal variation, and body mass index (BMI). Older maternal age and higher BMI were linked with lower vitamin D levels and a higher incidence of GDM. Ethnic groups with darker skin tones showed higher rates of vitamin D deficiency, increasing vulnerability to GDM. Seasonal patterns revealed lower vitamin D levels during winter months, correlating with greater GDM risk. These patterns underscore the need for targeted preventive strategies, including the potential role of vitamin D supplementation. Conclusions: This review supports an observed association between maternal vitamin D deficiency and increased GDM risk, influenced by demographic and environmental factors. While the evidence points to a potential preventative role for vitamin D, further high-quality research, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, is essential to establish causality and inform clinical guidelines. The review identifies knowledge gaps and suggests directions for future research and clinical practice.