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Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), a hyperglycemia first recognized during pregnancy, is becoming a significant global health issue that affects mothers and newborns. Over the past decade, more pregnant women have been diagnosed with GDM, with researchers pointing to various factors such as changing demographics, lifestyle changes, physical stress, and increased screening practices.
What does the data show?
- According to BioMed Central, a review in India estimated the prevalence of GDM in pregnant women to be approximately 13% (95% CI: 9–16%).
- According to explorationpub.com, another meta-analysis found its prevalence in India to be between 7.2% to 21.4% depending on the region and diagnostic criteria.
- According to BioMed Central, the Large Scale Demographic Survey (NFHS) in one dataset has reported an increase from 0.53% in 2015-16 to 0.80% in 2019-21, with a significant increase in rates in older maternal age groups.
These statistics and figures not only help in detention but also contribute to reducing GDM burden.
What factors contribute to the development of gestational diabetes during pregnancy?
Dr. Aggarwal, Director of Gynecology at Motherhood Hospital, explained the factors due to which the tendency of GDM is increasing in pregnant women. Healthshots:
1. Delayed conception
One of the most significant contributors is the increasing age of mothers. Women are now conceiving later in life due to career priorities, delayed marriage and planned family decisions. Increasing maternal age is closely associated with decreased insulin sensitivity and higher baseline risk of metabolic disorders, making these women more vulnerable to developing GDM during pregnancy.
2. Sedentary lifestyle, obesity and metabolic overload
Another major factor that comes to the fore is that low physical activity, desk-based work patterns and easy access to calorie-dense foods have created a widespread environment of weight gain and metabolic imbalance. Excess fat tissue increases insulin resistance, and when pregnancy adds natural hormone-driven resistance on top of that, the pancreas often cannot cope with the increased demand for insulin, resulting in gestational diabetes.
3. Change in dietary habits
Consumption of processed foods, refined carbohydrates, sugary beverages and irregular eating patterns have become increasingly common. These foods cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels and over time put pressure on insulin-producing cells. In contrast, traditional diets rich in whole grains, vegetables, and natural fiber, which once helped maintain metabolic health, are now being replaced by modern convenience foods.
4. Genetic predisposition and family history
Women who have a family history of diabetes, a previous history of GDM or conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) face a significantly higher risk. As the prevalence of type 2 diabetes increases in the general population, this hereditary component naturally appears in pregnant women as well.
5. Ethnicity and regional vulnerabilities
South Asian women in particular have a naturally higher insulin resistance and lower threshold for developing diabetes. Dr. Aggarwal says, India is experiencing rapid urbanization.
6. Better screening and awareness
Better prenatal screening and awareness means more cases are being detected. But Dr. Aggarwal cautions, “Although many cases previously went undiagnosed, the actual incidence is actually increasing, not just the detection rate.”
Does gestational diabetes increase the risk of diabetes in the baby?
Data indicating an increase in gestational diabetes suggest that detection may reduce the risk to both mother and baby, as untreated GDM is risky; This includes the following problems:
- Development of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease in the mother in the future.
- The child has a higher risk of obesity, glucose intolerance and metabolic disorders.
- Complications during pregnancy and delivery, including low birth weight, pre-eclampsia, and neonatal hypoglycemia.
Why is early diagnosis of pregnancy important?
As Dr. Aggarwal says, recognizing these trends is essential for early prevention, timely diagnosis and better pregnancy outcomes. Below are some things to consider.
- Pre-Pregnancy Counselling: It is beneficial for women planning their pregnancy to assess risk factors (age, BMI, family history) and improve metabolic health before conception.
- Lifestyle Interventions During Pregnancy: Engage in regular physical activity that is safe for pregnancy, and focus on maintaining a balanced diet rich in fiber, whole grains and lean proteins while limiting refined carbs and sugary drinks.
- Initial Screening: Starting glucose tolerance testing early in pregnancy for high-risk women ensures timely detection.
- weight management: Avoid excessive weight gain during the pregnancy period and try to maintain a healthy weight before getting pregnant.
- Postpartum Follow-up: Women who have had GDM should be screened for type 2 diabetes and metabolic disorders after delivery.
,Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you have about a medical condition.)
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