Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)

A recent STRiDE study across antenatal clinics in South India highlights that early gestational diabetes mellitus (EGDM) is more prevalent than late Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) and poses a higher long-term diabetes risk for mothers.

• The Study aims to assess the prevalence and risk factors of early versus late gestational diabetes mellitus (EGDM vs LGDM) in Asian Indian women and develop a risk-scoring system to predict late GDM early in pregnancy.

Key Findings of the STRiDE Study

• Prevalence of Early and Late GDM: Early Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (EGDM) prevalence was 21.5% & Late Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (LGDM) prevalence was 19.5%.
• Early Onset Evidence: Research confirms that GDM development begins before the standard 16-week timeline. 
  • The STRiDE study in India/UK/Kenya reported EGDM in roughly one in five women. 
• Long-Term Diabetes Risk: Women diagnosed with EGDM showed a higher risk of developing Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus later in life compared to those with LGDM.
• Risk Factor Associated:
  • For Early GDM: EGDM was associated with higher early-pregnancy weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, and Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c).
    • History of prior Gestational Diabetes Mellitus was more frequent among EGDM cases.
  • For Late GDM: LGDM showed a stronger association with family history of diabetes mellitus.
• Screening Methodology Suggested: Early screening before 16 weeks used Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) and Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c).
  • Women with abnormal early results were retested at 24–28 weeks of gestation.

About Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)

• Definition: High blood sugar appearing for the first time during pregnancy, usually disappearing after childbirth.
• Classification of GDM:
  • Early Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (EGDM): Diagnosed before 20 weeks of gestation.
  • Late Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (LGDM): Diagnosed between 24–28 weeks of gestation.
• Caused by: Hormonal changes and increased insulin resistance.
  • It  impairs the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar effectively. 
• Diagnosis Time: GDM is usually identified between 24 to 28 weeks of pregnancy.
• Why Early Screening is Important?
  • Need for Early Action: Experts now recommend glucose testing by the 8th week of pregnancy.
  • Reason: High blood sugar in the 1st trimester can affect the baby’s metabolism and increase risk of future diseases.

About Diabetes

• It is a chronic disease.
• In this disease, the body  does not produce enough insulin. 

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