CGM, Pregnancy, and Remote Monitoring

Biometrics of complete human pregnancy recorded by wearable devices

In the United States, normal-risk pregnancies are monitored with the recommended average of 14 prenatal visits. Check-ins every few weeks are the standard of care. This low time resolution and reliance on subjective feedback instead of direct physiological measurement, could be augmented by remote monitoring. To date, continuous physiological measurements have not been characterized across all of pregnancy, so there is little basis of comparison to support the development of the specific monitoring capabilities. Wearables have been shown to enable the detection and prediction of acute illness, often faster than subjective symptom reporting. Wearables have also been used for years to monitor chronic conditions, such as continuous glucose monitors. Here we perform a retrospective analysis on multimodal wearable device data (Oura Ring) generated across pregnancy within 120 individuals. These data reveal clear trajectories of pregnancy from cycling to conception through postpartum recovery. We assessed individuals in whom pregnancy did not progress past the first trimester, and found associated deviations, corroborating that continuous monitoring adds new information that could support decision-making even in the early stages of pregnancy. By contrast, we did not find significant deviations between full-term pregnancies of people younger than 35 and of people with "advanced maternal age", suggesting that analysis of continuous data within individuals can augment risk assessment beyond standard population comparisons. Our findings demonstrate that low-cost, high-resolution monitoring at all stages of pregnancy in real-world settings is feasible and that many studies into specific demographics, risks, etc., could be carried out using this newer technology.

Clinical Effectiveness of Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Pregnancies Affected by Type 1 Diabetes

Background: Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) improves neonatal outcomes in type 1 diabetes pregnancies; however, its effectiveness has not been assessed in a real-world setting in the United States. Objective: The Triple C Study aimed to examine the clinical effectiveness, assessed through maternal glucose control and gestational health outcomes, of CGM use compared with self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) in pregnancies associated with type 1 diabetes in a real-world setting. Research Design and Methods: We retrospectively identified 160 type 1 diabetes pregnancies at the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes managed with CGM therapy (n = 109) or SMBG (n = 51) over a 6.5-year period (2014-2020). Obstetric care was provided at multiple practices. CGM use was defined as ≥60% wear in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Data were obtained from the electronic medical record system, hospital records, and vital statistics departments (Colorado and Wyoming). We used Student's t-test for continuous variables and chi-square test for categorical variables to compare outcomes between groups. Results: The CGM group had more participants meeting trimester-specific hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) goals throughout pregnancy and postpartum (P < 0.01 in each time period). The CGM group had fewer participants never meeting HbA1c goals in any trimester than the SMBG group (P < 0.001). There were no significant differences in neonatal outcomes between groups, other than for macrosomia (12.8% CGM vs. 29.4% SMBG, P = 0.01). Infants of CGM users required a neonatal intensive care unit admission less often (52.9% CGM vs. 68.3% SMBG, P = 0.0989). Conclusions: CGM use was associated with improved maternal glucose levels in a diverse real-world cohort.

Technology advances in diabetes pregnancy: right technology, right person, right time

This review outlines some of the extraordinary recent advances in diabetes technology, which are transforming the management of type 1 diabetes before, during and after pregnancy. It highlights recent improvements associated with use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) but acknowledges that neither CGM nor insulin pump therapy are adequate for achieving the pregnancy glucose targets. Furthermore, even hybrid closed-loop (HCL) systems that are clinically effective outside of pregnancy may not confer additional benefits throughout pregnancy. To date, there is only one HCL system, the CamAPS FX, with a strong evidence base for use during pregnancy, suggesting that the pregnancy benefits are HCL system specific. This is in stark contrast to HCL system use outside of pregnancy, where benefits are HCL category specific. The CamAPS FX HCL system has a rapidly adaptive algorithm and lower glucose targets with benefits across all maternal glucose categories, meaning that it is applicable for all women with type 1 diabetes, before and during pregnancy. For women of reproductive years living with type 2 diabetes, the relative merits of using non-insulin pharmacotherapies vs diabetes technology (dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors) are unknown. Despite the urgent unmet need and potential benefits, studies of pharmacotherapy and technology use are extremely limited in pregnant women with type 2 diabetes.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Time in Range: Association with Adverse Outcomes among People with Type 2 or Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

OBJECTIVE

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has become available for women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) or gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) during pregnancy. The recommended time in range (TIR, blood glucose 70-140 mg/dL) and its correlation with adverse pregnancy outcomes in this group is unknown. Our aim was to compare maternal and neonatal outcomes in pregnant people with T2DM or GDM with average CGM TIR values >70 versus ≤70%.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all individuals using CGM during pregnancy from January 2017 to June 2022. Individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus, or those missing CGM or delivery data were excluded. Primary composite neonatal outcome included any of the following: large for gestational age, NICU admission, need for intravenous glucose, respiratory support, or neonatal death. Secondary outcomes included other maternal and neonatal outcomes. Regression models were used to estimate adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

During the study period, 141 individuals with diabetes utilized CGM during pregnancy, with 65 (46%) meeting inclusion criteria. Of the study population, 28 (43%) had TIR ≤70% and 37 (57%) had TIR > 70%. Compared with those with TIR > 70%, the primary composite outcome occurred more frequently in neonates of individuals TIR ≤70% (71.4 vs. 37.8%, aOR: 4.8, 95% CI: 1.6, 15.7). Furthermore, individuals with TIR ≤70% were more likely to have hypertensive disorders (42.9 vs. 16.2%, OR: 3.9, 95% CI: 1.3, 13.0), preterm delivery (54 vs. 27%, OR: 3.1, 95% CI: 1.1, 9.1): , and cesarean delivery (96.4 vs. 51.4%, OR: 4.6, 95% CI: 2.2, 15.1) compared with those with TIR >70%.

CONCLUSION

Among people with T2DM or GDM who utilized CGM during pregnancy, 4 out 10 individuals had TIR ≤70% and, compared with those with TIR > 70%, they had a higher likelihood of adverse neonatal and maternal outcomes.

KEY POINTS

· Time in range can be utilized as a metric for pregnant patients using continuous glucose monitor.. · Time in range >70% is achievable by 6 out of 10 patients.. · Time in range below goal is associated with adverse neonatal and maternal outcomes..

Continuous glucose monitoring metrics in pregnancy with type 1 diabetes mellitus

Managing diabetes during pregnancy is challenging, given the significant risk it poses for both maternal and foetal health outcomes. While traditional methods involve capillary self-monitoring of blood glucose level monitoring and periodic HbA1c tests, the advent of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems has revolutionized the approach. These devices offer a safe and reliable means of tracking glucose levels in real-time, benefiting both women with diabetes during pregnancy and the healthcare providers. Moreover, CGM systems have shown a low rate of side effects and high feasibility when used in pregnancies complicated by diabetes, especially when paired with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion pump as hybrid closed loop device. Such a combined approach has been demonstrated to improve overall blood sugar control, lessen the occurrence of preeclampsia and neonatal hypoglycaemia, and minimize the duration of neonatal intensive care unit stays. This paper aims to offer a comprehensive evaluation of CGM metrics specifically tailored for pregnancies impacted by type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring System Profile of Women Stratified Using Different Levels of Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) in Early Pregnancy: A Cross-sectional Study

AIM

To evaluate the differences in the continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS) profiles of women in early pregnancy stratified based on different HbA1c levels known to be predictive of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) at 24-28 weeks of gestation (≥ 5.2%) and adverse pregnancy outcomes (≥ 5.5%) in Indian women.

METHODS

We enrolled women at 8^+ 0 to 19^+ 6 weeks of gestation (early pregnancy), evaluated the glycaemic parameters of clinical interest using CGMS, and reported them per standard methodology proposed by Hernandez et al. WHO 2013 criteria were used for diagnosis of early GDM.

RESULTS

Ninety-six women were enrolled at 14.0 ± 3.2 weeks of gestation. Of these, 38 were found to have early GDM (diagnosed before 20 weeks of gestation) on evaluation. Of 96 women, 33 (34.4%) had HbA1c value ≥ 5.5% [11 (19.0%) with normoglycaemia and 22 (57.9%) with GDM]. The women with elevated HbA1c differed significantly from those with HbA1c < 5.5% for all evaluated parameters. The differences for overall women were > 10 mg/dl (0.56 mmol/l) for 1-h postprandial glucose (difference of 0.78 mmol/l), 2-h postprandial glucose (difference of 0.59 mmol/l), peak postprandial glucose (difference of 0.75 mmol/l), and 1-h postprandial glucose excursion (difference of 0.59 mmol/l). Of 58 women with normoglycaemia, 29 (50.0%) had an HbA1c value  ≥ 5.2%. In comparison, in the normoglycaemic group of women with and without HbA1c ≥ 5.2% (known to be predictive of future GDM), the results were significant for 1-h (difference of 0.44 mmol/l), 2-h (difference of 0.278 mmol/l), and peak postprandial glucose (difference of 0.35 mmol/l).

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that women with elevated HbA1c (≥ 5.5%) in early pregnancy significantly differ from those with HbA1c < 5.5% in all glycaemic parameters evaluated in this study, suggesting that HbA1c at this cut-off has a role to play in early pregnancy.

Intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring is associated with lower spontaneous abortion rate compared with conventional blood glucose monitoring in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes: An observational study

AIM

The objective of the present real-life study in France was to assess and compare characteristics and outcomes in a cohort of pregnant women with type 1 diabetes (T1D) using intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM) or conventional blood glucose monitoring (BGM).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We performed an observational study of a cohort of 153 women with T1D: 77 women were using isCGM, and 76 were using BGM. We compared the groups' maternal characteristics and maternal-fetal complications. The level of HbA1c was measured before pregnancy and then four times (after 8-12, 24-28, 30-33, and 35-37 weeks of gestation).

RESULTS

The two groups were similar in terms of age, prepregnancy BMI, diabetes duration, and diabetic vascular complications. There were no significant intergroup differences in the obstetric history. The spontaneous abortion rate was lower in the isCGM group than in the blood glucose monitoring group (5.3% vs. 20%, respectively; p = .0129), while the prepregnancy and first-trimester HbA1c levels were similar. There were no significant intergroup differences in the incidence of other maternal-fetal complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This observational study demonstrates that isCGM use is associated with lower spontaneous abortion compared with conventional BGM. Large prospective studies are needed to corroborate our findings and fully understand the relationship between glucose data at the time of conception/early pregnancy and foetal outcome.

Assessing Glycemic Control Using CGM for Women with Diabetes in Pregnancy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Diabetes during pregnancy increases the risk of maternal and fetal complications. This article reviews the types of CGM currently available, the glucose metrics which correlate with pregnancy outcomes, endocrine organization recommendations, clinical considerations for CGM implementation, and anticipated directions for future research.

RECENT FINDINGS

CGM use during pregnancy is increasing, and recommendations for use have been incorporated into many organizations' consensus guidelines. Increased time spent within a target range of 63-140 mg/dL and lower mean glucose are associated with lower risk of neonatal complications including large for gestational age infants. Use of CGM during pregnancy can detect postprandial and nocturnal hyperglycemia missed by self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) which can be used for prognosis and to guide pharmacologic interventions. The use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) during pregnancies complicated by type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes has been shown to improve outcomes.

Comparison of one hour versus 90 minute postprandial glucose measurement in women with gestational diabetes; which one is more effective?

In the present study, we aimed to compare postprandial 90 minute measurements and postprandial 1 hour (PP1-HR) measurements for prediction of foetal growth disturbances and pregnancy complications. This was a prospective study conducted in Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University Altunizade Hospital in Department of Perinatology. The study group consisted of patients diagnosed with gestational diabetes. In each antepartum visit, the patients fasting plasma glucose as well as PP1-HR and 90 minute measurements were made. Perinatal and neonatal data were obtained from each patient. The rate of large for gestational age infants was increased in patients when either PP1-HR measurement above 140 mg/dl or postprandial 90 minute measurement above 165 mg/dl compared to patients with normal PP1-HR or postprandial 90 minute measurement. Preterm delivery rate was increased in patients with postprandial 90 minute measurement above 165 mg/dl but not in patients with PP1-HR measurement above 140 mg/dl. The optimal cut-off for postprandial 90 minute measurement was 165 mg/dl based on receiver operating characteristics curve. Our preliminary data show that postprandial 90 minute measurements are superior to PP1-HR measurements in predicting large for gestational age infants.Impact StatementWhat is already known on this subject? Gestational diabetes (GDM) is defined as any degree of glucose intolerance with onset or first recognition in pregnancy. Maternal hyperglycaemia has been linked to metabolic alterations in the foetus and thus brings about foetal macrosomia as well as other pregnancy complications such as preterm delivery and preeclampsia.What the results of this study add? The findings of the present study suggest that postprandial 90 minute predicted more cases of LGA infants than postprandial 1-hour (PP1-HR) measurements. In addition, the rate of preterm deliveries was found to be increased in patients with mean postprandial 90 minute measurements above 165 mg/dl compared to patients with postprandial 90 minute measurements below 165 mg/dl. However, the rate of preterm deliveries was similar in patients with elevated PP1-HR measurements and patients with normal PP1-HR measurements.What the implications are of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Our study is the first to investigate the usefulness of postprandial 90 minute in a prospective design. Our preliminary data show that postprandial 90 minute measurements are superior to PP 1 measurements in predicting LGA babies. It also correlates better with preterm deliveries.

Continuous glucose monitoring in obese pregnant women with no hyperglycemia on glucose tolerance test

Objective

The objective of the present study was to compare 24-hour glycemic levels between obese pregnant women with normal glucose tolerance and non-obese pregnant women.

Methods

In the present observational, longitudinal study, continuous glucose monitoring was performed in obese pregnant women with normal oral glucose tolerance test with 75 g of glucose between the 24^th and the 28^th gestational weeks. The control group (CG) consisted of pregnant women with normal weight who were selected by matching the maternal age and parity with the same characteristics of the obese group (OG). Glucose measurements were obtained during 72 hours.

Results

Both the groups were balanced in terms of baseline characteristics (age: 33.5 [28.7–36.0] vs. 32.0 [26.0–34.5] years, p = 0.5 and length of pregnancy: 25.0 [24.0–25.0] vs. 25.5 [24.0–28.0] weeks, p = 0.6 in the CG and in the OG, respectively). Pre-breakfast glycemic levels were 77.77 ± 10.55 mg/dL in the CG and 82.02 ± 11.06 mg/dL in the OG (p<0.01). Glycemic levels at 2 hours after breakfast were 87.31 ± 13.10 mg/dL in the CG and 93.48 ± 18.74 mg/dL in the OG (p<0.001). Daytime blood glucose levels were 87.6 ± 15.4 vs. 93.1 ± 18.3 mg/dL (p<0.001) and nighttime blood glucose levels were 79.3 ± 15.8 vs. 84.7 ± 16.3 mg/dL (p<0.001) in the CG and in the OG, respectively. The 24-hour, daytime, and nighttime values of the area under the curve were higher in the OG when compared with the CG (85.1 ± 0.16 vs. 87.9 ± 0.12, 65.6 ± 0.14 vs. 67.5 ± 0.10, 19.5 ± 0.07 vs. 20.4 ± 0.05, respectively; p<0.001).

Conclusion

The results of the present study showed that obesity in pregnancy was associated with higher glycemic levels even in the presence of normal findings on glucose tolerance test.

The diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and its impact on In Vitro Fertilization pregnancies. A pilot study

BACKGROUND

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is increasingly becoming a necessary mode of reproduction. This high risk group is prone to Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) which further exposes these pregnancies to an increased risk of adverse outcomes. In light of the limited data in the current literature, further investigation is needed regarding the time of GDM diagnosis in IVF pregnancies as well as the outcome of IVF pregnancies complicated by GDM.

METHODS

In this three center pilot cross sectional study, the data of 101 singleton IVF pregnancies complicated by GDM were analyzed. Prompt GDM diagnosis in IVF pregnancies was accomplished by self-blood glucose monitoring (SMBG) from the first antenatal visit and confirmed by an OGTT. To evaluate pregnancy outcome, maternal and fetal complications in the 101 GDM IVF group was compared to 101 IVF as well as 101 spontaneous conceptions (SC). The three groups were matched by age. The effect of demographic and glycemic parameters on the outcome of GDM IVF pregnancies was investigated.

RESULTS

GDM diagnosis was made before the 24th week in 37.6% of the GDM IVF group. The week of delivery was earlier for the GDM IVF group (37 ± 1.7) relative to the IVF (37.9 ± 0.9, p < 0.001) and the SC group (38.1 ± 0.8, p < 0.001). GDM IVF pregnancies exhibited greater preeclampsia rates and 84.8% underwent caesarian section. No significant difference regarding LGA and SGA birth weights was found. Complications of GDM IVF pregnancies were associated with the 1-h postprandial BG (r = 0.267, p = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

GDM screening in IVF pregnancies may be considered earlier than the 24th week. IVF pregnancies affected by GDM are prone to increased maternal and fetal complications which are associated with 1-h postprandial BG.

Long-Term IoT-Based Maternal Monitoring: System Design and Evaluation

Pregnancy is a unique time when many mothers gain awareness of their lifestyle and its impacts on the fetus. High-quality care during pregnancy is needed to identify possible complications early and ensure the mother’s and her unborn baby’s health and well-being. Different studies have thus far proposed maternal health monitoring systems. However, they are designed for a specific health problem or are limited to questionnaires and short-term data collection methods. Moreover, the requirements and challenges have not been evaluated in long-term studies. Maternal health necessitates a comprehensive framework enabling continuous monitoring of pregnant women. In this paper, we present an Internet-of-Things (IoT)-based system to provide ubiquitous maternal health monitoring during pregnancy and postpartum. The system consists of various data collectors to track the mother’s condition, including stress, sleep, and physical activity. We carried out the full system implementation and conducted a real human subject study on pregnant women in Southwestern Finland. We then evaluated the system’s feasibility, energy efficiency, and data reliability. Our results show that the implemented system is feasible in terms of system usage during nine months. We also indicate the smartwatch, used in our study, has acceptable energy efficiency in long-term monitoring and is able to collect reliable photoplethysmography data. Finally, we discuss the integration of the presented system with the current healthcare system.

Preventing maternal mortality in the United States: lessons from California and policy recommendations

Maternal mortality remains a large concern in the United States (US), although other Western countries are making progress. In this scoping review, we identify four problems that may contribute to the maternal mortality burden in the US: inadequately investing in women's health, poor quality of care, increasing disparities, and poor data collection and monitoring of maternal health issues. Because maternal mortality is decreasing in California, we identify strategies implemented there that could improve maternal health outcomes nationwide: funding programs to address social determinants of maternal health; supporting health care strategies to improve maternal health (including national standards and goals for health care systems); and investing in maternal health monitoring and surveillance (including use of technology). We encourage researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to work together to develop evidence-based policies and practices to improve maternal health and reduce maternal. We conclude with recommendations for the United States and globally.

Performance of the Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring System in Pregnant Women with Diabetes

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the performance of the Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system across three sensor wear sites in pregnant women with diabetes in the second or third trimesters. Methods: Participants with type 1 (T1D), type 2 (T2D), or gestational (GDM) diabetes mellitus were enrolled at three sites. Each wore two G6 sensors on the abdomen, upper buttock, and/or posterior upper arm for 10 days and underwent a 6-h clinic session between days 3 and 7 of sensor wear, during which YSI reference blood glucose values were obtained every 30 min. No intentional glucose manipulations were performed. Accuracy metrics included the proportion of CGM values that were within ±20% of paired reference values >100 mg/dL or ±20 mg/dL of YSI values ≤100 mg/dL (hereafter referred to as %20/20), as well as the analogous %15/15, %30/30, and %40/40. The mean absolute relative difference (MARD) between CGM-YSI pairs was also calculated. Results: Thirty-two participants with T1D (n = 20), T2D (n = 3), or GDM (n = 9) were enrolled: 19 were in the second trimester and 13 were in the third trimester of pregnancy. Compared with the reference, 92.5% of CGM values were within ±20%/20 mg/dL. The overall MARD and that of sensors worn on the abdomen, upper buttock, and posterior upper arm was 10.3%, 11.5%, 11.2%, and 8.7%, respectively. There were no device-related adverse events. Skin reactions at the insertion sites were absent or minor. Conclusions: The Dexcom G6 CGM system is accurate and safe in pregnant women with diabetes.

Effectiveness of real-time continuous glucose monitoring to improve glycaemic control and pregnancy outcome in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Real-time continuous glucose monitoring (rt-CGM) informs users about current interstitial glucose levels and allows early detection of glycaemic excursions and timely adaptation by behavioural change or pharmacological intervention. Randomised controlled studies adequately powered to evaluate the impact of long-term application of rt-CGM systems on the reduction of adverse obstetric outcomes in women with gestational diabetes (GDM) are missing. We aim to assess differences in the proportion of large for gestational age newborns in women using rt-CGM as compared with women with self-monitored blood glucose (primary outcome). Rates of neonatal hypoglycaemia, caesarean section and shoulder dystocia are secondary outcomes. A comparison of glucose metabolism and quality of life during and after pregnancy completes the scope of this study.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Open-label multicentre randomised controlled trial with two parallel groups including 372 female patients with a recent diagnosis of GDM (between 24+0 until 31+6 weeks of gestation): 186 with rt-CGM (Dexcom G6) and 186 with self-monitored blood glucose (SMBG). Women with GDM will be consecutively recruited and randomised to rt-CGM or control (SMBG) group after a run-in period of 6-8 days. The third visit will be scheduled 8-10 days later and then every 2 weeks. At every visit, glucose measurements will be evaluated and all patients will be treated according to the standard care. The control group will receive a blinded CGM for 10 days between the second and third visit and between week 36+0 and 38+6. Cord blood will be sampled immediately after delivery. 48 hours after delivery neonatal biometry and maternal glycosylated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) will be assessed, and between weeks 8 and 16 after delivery all patients receive a re-examination of glucose metabolism including blinded CGM for 8-10 days.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study received ethical approval from the main ethic committee in Vienna. Data will be presented at international conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03981328; Pre-results.

Continuous Glucose Monitors and Automated Insulin Dosing Systems in the Hospital Consensus Guideline

This article is the work product of the Continuous Glucose Monitor and Automated Insulin Dosing Systems in the Hospital Consensus Guideline Panel, which was organized by Diabetes Technology Society and met virtually on April 23, 2020. The guideline panel consisted of 24 international experts in the use of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and automated insulin dosing (AID) systems representing adult endocrinology, pediatric endocrinology, obstetrics and gynecology, advanced practice nursing, diabetes care and education, clinical chemistry, bioengineering, and product liability law. The panelists reviewed the medical literature pertaining to five topics: (1) continuation of home CGMs after hospitalization, (2) initiation of CGMs in the hospital, (3) continuation of AID systems in the hospital, (4) logistics and hands-on care of hospitalized patients using CGMs and AID systems, and (5) data management of CGMs and AID systems in the hospital. The panelists then developed three types of recommendations for each topic, including clinical practice (to use the technology optimally), research (to improve the safety and effectiveness of the technology), and hospital policies (to build an environment for facilitating use of these devices) for each of the five topics. The panelists voted on 78 proposed recommendations. Based on the panel vote, 77 recommendations were classified as either strong or mild. One recommendation failed to reach consensus. Additional research is needed on CGMs and AID systems in the hospital setting regarding device accuracy, practices for deployment, data management, and achievable outcomes. This guideline is intended to support these technologies for the management of hospitalized patients with diabetes.

Leveraging technology for the treatment of type 1 diabetes in pregnancy: A review of past, current, and future therapeutic tools

The significant risks associated with pregnancies complicated by type 1 diabetes (T1D) were first recognized in the medical literature in the mid-twentieth century. Stringent glycemic control with hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) values ideally less than 6% has been shown to improve maternal and fetal outcomes. The management options for pregnant women with T1D in the modern era include a variety of technologies to support self-care. Although self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) and multiple daily injections (MDI) are often the recommended management options during pregnancy, many people with T1D utilize a variety of different technologies, including continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII), and CSII including automated delivery or suspension algorithms. These systems have yielded invaluable diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities and have the potential to benefit this understudied higher-risk group. A recent prospective, multicenter study evaluating pregnant patients with T1D revealed that CGM significantly improves maternal glycemic parameters, is associated with fewer adverse neonatal outcomes, and minimizes burden. Outcome data for CSII, which is approved for use in pregnancy and has been utilized for several decades, remain mixed. Current evidence, although limited, for commercially available and emerging technologies for the management of T1D in pregnancy holds promise for improving patient and fetal outcomes.

Continuous glucose monitor use with and without remote monitoring in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes: A pilot study

BACKGROUND

To examine whether continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) with remote monitoring by followers (family/friends) changes glucose management, follower interventions, and health outcomes compared to CGM alone in pregnant women with diabetes.

METHODS

We prospectively stratified first trimester pregnant women with Type 1 Diabetes to CGM Share (remote monitoring) or CGM Alone. We enrolled a main follower per woman. We retrospectively acquired data for pregnant women who did not use CGM (no CGM). We compared hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) between groups. We compared sensor glucose, follower interventions, and gestational outcomes between CGM Alone and CGM Share. Longitudinal mixed effects models were used for analyses of changes in outcomes over time.

RESULTS

HbA1c decreased in all groups throughout pregnancy and was significantly lower over time in women using CGM Share (n = 15) compared to CGM Alone (n = 13) or no CGM (n = 8) (p = 0.0042). CGM Share users had lower median sensor glucose levels (p = 0.0331) and percent time spent >180 mg/dL (p = 0.0228) across pregnancy. There were no significant differences in maternal and fetal outcomes between groups. CGM Share followers had more alerts for hypoglycemia, but did fewer interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

In this small pilot study, use of CGM with remote monitoring improved some glycemic metrics in pregnant women with diabetes.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Glycemic Patterns in Pregnant Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) could detect certain patterns of hyperglycemia at different times of the day that may help predict the development of maternal-fetal complications and the probability of needing pharmacological treatment. Methods: This study prospectively examined 77 women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) who were placed on a CGM system for 6 days after diagnosis between 26 and 32 weeks of gestation. Patterns of hyperglycemia before meals (period of time of an hour just before meal) (>95 mg/dL), after meals (time interval of 2 h and half just after meal) (>140 mg/dL), and overnight (0-7 am) (>120 mg/dL) and their association with maternal-fetal complications and pharmacological treatment were analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic curves were developed to estimate the validity of the various patterns in detecting the need for pharmacological treatment. Results: A statistically significant relationship was observed between time in hyperglycemia after lunch and macrosomia (P = 0.035) and large for gestational age infants (P = 0.010). Pharmacological treatment was required for patients with time above range (TAR; P = 0.006) and those with hyperglycemia patterns before breakfast (P < 0.001), after breakfast (P = 0.006), before dinner (P = 0.012), and overnight (P = 0.001). Every additional percentage point of TAR was associated with a 24% increase in the probability of pharmacological treatment. Conclusions: The use of CGM for the diagnosis of GDM allows the identification of those patients who would benefit from closer monitoring during pregnancy, including self-monitoring of both pre- and postprandial blood glucose levels, facilitating the initiation of early pharmacological treatment.

Evaluation of Glycaemic Control, Glucose Variability and Hypoglycaemia on Long-Term Continuous Subcutaneous Infusion vs. Multiple Daily Injections: Observational Study in Pregnancies With Pre-Existing Type 1 Diabetes

INTRODUCTION

We evaluated the effectiveness of long-term continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) compared with multiple daily insulin (MDI) injections for glycaemic control and variability, hypoglycaemic episodes and maternal/neonatal outcomes in pregnant women with pre-existing type 1 diabetes (pT1D).

METHODS

Our observational cohort study included 128 consecutive pregnant women with pT1D, who were treated from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2017. Of 128 participants, 48 were on CSII and 80 were on MDI. Glycaemic control was determined by glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) (captured in preconception and each trimester of pregnancy). Glucose variability (GV) was expressed as the coefficient of variation (CV) [calculated from self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) values], and hypoglycaemia was defined as glucose values < 3.9 mmol/l. The data on maternal and neonatal outcomes were collected from obstetrical records.

RESULTS

Duration of the treatment was 8.8 ± 5.3 years in the CSII and 12.6 ± 8.0 years in the MDI group. The CSII lowered HbA1c in preconception (7.1 ± 0.1 vs. 7.9 ± 0.2%, p = 0.03) and the first (6.9 ± 0.1 vs. 7.7 ± 0.2%, p = 0.02), second (6.6 ± 0.1 vs. 7.2 ± 0.1%, p = 0.003) and third (6.5 ± 0.1 vs. 6.8 ± 0.1%, p = 0.02) trimesters significantly better than MDI. Significantly lower CV was observed only for fasting glycaemia in the first trimester (17.1 vs 28.4%, p < 0.001) in favour of CSII. Moreover, the CSII group had significantly lower mean hypoglycaemic episodes/week/patient only during the first trimester (2.0 ± 1.7 vs 4.8 ± 1.5, p < 0.01). In early pregnancy, the majority of women on CSII had less hypoglycaemia than on MDI (0-3: 79.1 vs. 29.1%; 4-6: 18.8 vs. 65.8%; ≥ 7: 2.1 vs. 5.1%, p < 0.01, respectively). We found no difference in the incidence of adverse maternal/neonatal outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with CSII resulted in a favourable reduction of HbA1c in the preconception period and each trimester in pregnancy. Moreover, long-term CSII treatment demonstrated more stable metabolic control with less GV of fasting glycaemia and fewer hypoglyacemic episodes only during early pregnancy.

Experiences of women receiving mhealth-supported antenatal care in the village from community health workers in rural Burkina Faso, Africa

Objective

This qualitative study explored the experiences of women receiving mhealth-supported antenatal care in a village, from community health workers (CHWs) in rural Burkina Faso, Africa.

Intervention

CHWs entered patient clinical data manually in their smartphone during their home visits. All wireless transferred data was monitored by the midwives in the community clinic for arising medical complications.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 pregnant women, who were housewives, married and their age ranged from 18 to 39 years. None had completed their formal education. Depending on the weeks of gestation during their first antenatal care visit, length of enrollment in the project varied between three and eight months. Transcripts were content-analyzed.

Results

Despite the fact that mhealth was a novel service for all participants, they expressed appreciation for these interventions, which they found beneficial on three levels: 1) it allowed for early detection of pregnancy-related complications, 2) it was perceived as promoting collaboration between CHWs and midwives, and 3) it was a source of reassurance during a time when they are concerned about their health. Although not unanimous, certain participants said their husbands were more interested in their antenatal care as a result of these services.

Conclusion

Findings suggested that mhealth-supported visits of the CHWs have the potential to increase mothers’ knowledge about their pregnancy and, as such, motivate them to attend more ANC visits. In response to this increased patient engagement, midwives approached women differently, which led to the mothers’ perception of improvement in the patient–provider relationship. Results also indicated that mhealth may increase spousal involvement, as services are offered at home, which is an environment where spouses feel more comfortable.

Evaluating the effects of mobile health intervention on weight management, glycemic control and pregnancy outcomes in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus

PURPOSE

To explore the effects of mobile health (mHealth) intervention on pregnancy weight management, blood glucose control and pregnancy outcomes.

METHODS

A total of 124 patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) were selected. Patients were randomly divided into two groups. The 60 patients in the control group received standard outpatient treatment, while the remaining 64 patients received a nurse's online guidance both through a mobile medical App installed on their phone and through regular offline clinical treatment in the mHealth group. Patients were treated for an average of 13 weeks and general conditions, compliance, blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, weight gain, pregnancy, and neonatal outcomes were monitored in both groups longitudinally.

RESULTS

The mHealth group demonstrated higher levels of compliance (83.3 ± 12.5% vs. 70.4 ± 10.1%, t = - 6.293, df = 122, p < 0.001), lower frequency of outpatient service (8.1 ± 1.3 vs. 11.2 ± 1.1, t = 14.285, df = 122, p < 0.001), lower hemoglobin A1C before delivery (4.7 ± 0.2 vs. 5.3 ± 0.3, t = 13.216, df = 122, p < 0.001) as well as the rates of off-target measurements both fasting (4.6 ± 0.4% vs. 8.3 ± 0.6%, t = 40.659, df = 122, p < 0.001) and 2 h post-prandial (7.9 ± 0.7% vs. 14.7 ± 0.8%, t = 50.746, df = 122, p < 0.001). Weight gain in the mHealth group was less than control group (3.2 ± 0.8 vs. 4.8 ± 0.7, t = 11.851, df = 122 p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Mobile health intervention management of gestational diabetes mellitus improves patients' compliance and blood glucose control, and reduces weight gain, thereby reducing the rates of complications in both pregnant women and fetuses during delivery during pregnancy.

Glycaemic profile in the second and third trimesters of normal pregnancy compared to non-pregnant adult females

Aim

To assess the glycaemic profile and glycaemic variation in the second and third trimesters of normal pregnancies.

Methodology

Healthy pregnant women aged 19-35 years between 24 and 36 weeks of gestation were recruited for ambulatory glucose profile monitoring. A total of 18 women in the second trimester, 15 women in the third trimester and 9 healthy non-pregnant women were recruited providing, respectively, 205 days (19,680 data points), 147 days (14,112 data points) and 100 days (9,600 data points) for analysis.

Results

Mean blood glucose level was 20.2% lower in the second trimester and 10.6% lower in the third trimester than non-pregnant women (p < 0.001). In pregnancy, it took 15 to 20 minutes more to reach peak postprandial blood glucose levels compared to non-pregnant women (p = 0.003). Glycaemic variability was more in the third trimester (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

There is tight blood sugar control along with lower mean blood glucose in healthy pregnant women compared to non-pregnant women. Despite this tight glycaemic control, glycaemic variability is higher during pregnancy.

Technology in Diabetes Treatment: Update and Future

Worldwide the number of people with diabetes mellitus is increasing. There are estimations that diabetes is one of the leading causes of death. The most important goals for the treatment of diabetes are self-management of the disease and an optimal quality of diabetes control. In the therapy new technologies, like real-time continuous interstitial glucose monitoring, continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII), electronic tools for the monitoring of therapeutic approaches, automated bolus calculators for insulin and electronic tools for education and information of patients, have become widespread and play important roles. All these efforts are related to the interaction between patients, caregivers, scientists or researchers and industry. The presentation of different aspects of new technological approaches in the present article should give more information about different technologies. However, because of the rather quickly appearance of new technologies, the presentation can only be a spotlight. Further studies are mandatory to analyze the effects and long-term benefits of each technology and electronic device.

Continuous glucose monitoring in pregnant women with Type 1 diabetes: benefits for mothers, using pumps or pens, and their babies

AIMS

To review the current literature on the use of continuous glucose monitoring during pregnancy in women with Type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

We searched the literature for randomized controlled trials using continuous glucose monitoring during pregnancy in women with Type 1 diabetes.

RESULTS

Three randomized trials were found and discussed in this review. One UK study found a reduction in large-for-gestational-age infants; however, only masked continuous glucose monitoring was used in that study. A Danish study used intermittent real-time continuous glucose monitoring and found no differences. The present authors conducted the CONCEPTT trial, in which pregnant women and women planning pregnancy were randomized to receive continuous glucose monitoring or standard care. We found a greater drop in HbA_1c , more time spent in the target range, and a reduction in some adverse neonatal outcomes in women using continuous glucose monitoring. Numbers-needed-to-treat to prevent a large-for-gestational-age infant, a neonatal intensive care unit admission for >24 h, and a neonatal hypoglycaemia event were low. These findings were seen in both injection and pump users and across all countries. Possible reasons for differences in study findings are discussed. In addition, several issues need further study. Glycaemic variability and differences in dietary intake may also have played a role. Despite excellent glycaemic control, babies continue to be large. More research is needed to understand the role of glucose targets and the dynamic placental processes involved in fetal growth.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of continuous glucose monitoring in women with Type 1 diabetes in pregnancy is associated with improved glycaemic control and neonatal outcomes. Further research examining the glycaemic and non-glycaemic variables involved in fetal growth and the cost-benefit of using continuous glucose monitoring in pregnancy is warranted.