This story was first published in digitalhealth.net
Gestational diabetes tests happening too late, study cautions
A study published in the journal of Diabetes Care has warned that tests for diabetes in pregnant women are taking place too late, leading to an increase in the risk of further pregnancy related complications.
Currently, screening takes place at 28 weeks, however the study of 4,069 women has showed that by this time the foetus is already affected by the disease, showing excessive foetal growth. Data shows that the incidence of gestational diabetes is fairly common, affecting up to 18 in every 100 pregnancies.
The disease means extra sugar in the bloodstream acts as ‘baby fuel’ leading to rapid growth inside the womb, leading to difficulties during birth and delivery. It also means that babies can be at higher risks of obesity and diabetes later in life.
Commenting on the findings, Dr Daghni Rajasingam, from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, said: "This study emphasises the importance of early detection and diagnosis.
”There is growing awareness for the need to screen earlier, but further research should assess the ideal timing of screening and the impact this has on the child's health.
"It is important to emphasise that immediate changes to lifestyle, including a healthy diet and moderate levels of exercise, can have significantly positive effects on a woman and her baby's health."
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