Maternal prenatal factors and dietary intake that pose an early risk of developmental delay in their offspring among pregnant mothers in Kuala Selangor

Developmental delays in children are increasingly recognized as a public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study investigated maternal prenatal factors and dietary intake that may pose a risk of developmental delay in offspring, focusing on 118 pregnant women in their third trimester attending community clinics in Kuala Selangor. Results showed a significant prevalence of inadequate intake of iron, folate, and dietary fiber. Over half of the participants were overweight or obese, with many exhibiting inappropriate gestational weight gain (GWG). Notably, 31.4% reported anxiety, and 20.3% reported depression. Key associations included employed women having higher odds of being overweight or obese (OR = 8.360, 95% CI: 1.331–52.497, p = 0.024) and women aged 30–45 being more likely to experience excessive GWG (OR = 5.864, 95% CI: 1.763–19.501, p = 0.004). Tertiary education was linked to higher GWG (OR = 4.887, 95% CI: 1.233– 19.374, p = 0.024). Older maternal age was a strong predictor of gestational diabetes (OR = 6.362, 95% CI: 2.239–18.082, p < 0.001), and secondary education was associated with dietary fiber deficiency (OR = 2.452, 95% CI: 1.032–5.831, p = 0.041). These findings highlight the need for early interventions targeting maternal health and nutrition.