Racial differences in the association between gestational diabetes mellitus and risk of type 2 diabetes

Prevalence of gestational diabetes in the United States and Canada: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

An understanding of the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus among pregnant women is essential at local, national and international level so that appropriate health care interventions can be planned, financed and delivered.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis of primary research reporting the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus in Canada or the United States were carried out according to Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines. Four electronic databases were systematically searched in June 2023 to identify articles that reported gestational diabetes mellitus prevalence using universal screening in pregnant women from eligible general population samples. Estimates were combined using a random effects model, and the effects of moderator variables analysed.

RESULTS

There were 36 separate samples of women or deliveries (total sample size 1,550,917). Overall mean prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus was 6.9% (95% CI: 5.7-8.3); 13.7% (95% CI: 10.7-17.3) in studies using a one-step screening strategy, and 5.2% (95% CI: 4.4-6.1) in those using a two-step strategy. Heterogeneity in technical methods between studies produced differences in estimates, as did different diagnostic thresholds used.

CONCLUSIONS

The meta-analysis suggests a slightly higher prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus in Canada and the United States, compared to Europe, but highlights the need for standardised protocols for estimating gestational diabetes mellitus prevalence.

Precision stratification of prognostic risk factors associated with outcomes in gestational diabetes mellitus: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The objective of this systematic review is to identify prognostic factors among women and their offspring affected by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), focusing on endpoints of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) for women, and cardiometabolic profile for offspring.

METHODS

This review included studies published in English language from January 1st, 1990, through September 30th, 2021, that focused on the above outcomes of interest with respect to sociodemographic factors, lifestyle and behavioral characteristics, traditional clinical traits, and 'omics biomarkers in the mothers and offspring during the perinatal/postpartum periods and across the lifecourse. Studies that did not report associations of prognostic factors with outcomes of interest among GDM-exposed women or children were excluded.

RESULTS

Here, we identified 109 publications comprising 98 observational studies and 11 randomized-controlled trials. Findings indicate that GDM severity, maternal obesity, race/ethnicity, and unhealthy diet and physical activity levels predict T2D and CVD in women, and greater cardiometabolic risk in offspring. However, using the Diabetes Canada 2018 Clinical Practice Guidelines for studies, the level of evidence was low due to potential for confounding, reverse causation, and selection biases.

CONCLUSIONS

GDM pregnancies with greater severity, as well as those accompanied by maternal obesity, unhealthy diet, and low physical activity, as well as cases that occur among women who identify as racial/ethnic minorities are associated with worse cardiometabolic prognosis in mothers and offspring. However, given the low quality of evidence, prospective studies with detailed covariate data collection and high fidelity of follow-up are warranted.

Adverse pregnancy outcomes and risk of type 2 diabetes in postmenopausal women

BACKGROUND

Although gestational diabetes mellitus and delivering high-birthweight infants are known to predict a higher risk of future type 2 diabetes mellitus, the association of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and other adverse pregnancy outcomes with type 2 diabetes mellitus is not well established.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the associations between different types of adverse pregnancy outcomes and incident type 2 diabetes mellitus among postmenopausal women.

STUDY DESIGN

The Women's Health Initiative, a nationwide cohort of postmenopausal women, collected self-reported history of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including gestational diabetes mellitus, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, preterm birth, and delivering low- birthweight (<2500 g) or high-birthweight (>4500 g) infants. Participants were followed up annually for self-reported incident type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with medication from baseline (1993-1998) to March 2021. This study used logistic regression to examine the associations of any and individual adverse pregnancy outcomes with diabetes mellitus. Stratified analyses were performed to assess effect modification by body mass index, race and ethnicity, education, parity, breastfeeding, and age at first birth.

RESULTS

This analysis included 49,717 women without a history of diabetes mellitus at enrollment who had a least 1 pregnancy and responded to the questionnaire about adverse pregnancy outcomes. After adjusting for body mass index, demographic, lifestyle, and reproductive factors, gestational diabetes mellitus (odds ratio, 2.26; 95% confidence interval, 1.94-2.63), high birthweight (odds ratio, 1.30; 95% confidence interval, 1.18-1.44), and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (odds ratio, 1.18; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-1.30) were independently associated with higher odds of type 2 diabetes mellitus, whereas preterm birth and low birthweight were not associated with diabetes mellitus risk. A history of ≥2 adverse pregnancy outcomes was associated with higher odds of type 2 diabetes mellitus (odds ratio, 1.55; 95% confidence interval, 1.28-1.88). This study further observed higher odds of type 2 diabetes mellitus (odds ratio, 3.69; 95% confidence interval, 2.38-5.70) among women with a history of both gestational diabetes mellitus and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy than those without any adverse pregnancy outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Postmenopausal women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus, those delivering high-birthweight infants, or those with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are at risk of future type 2 diabetes mellitus. In addition, women with ≥2 conditions had an augmented risk and might be prioritized for screening and prevention efforts for type 2 diabetes mellitus.

The Incidence and Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus After Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) refers to a transient state of impaired glucose tolerance that develops during pregnancy, affecting a significant proportion of expectant mothers globally. This review aimed to comprehensively examine the subsequent incidence and management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in women who have previously experienced GDM. The transition from GDM to T2DM is a well-recognized continuum, with affected women facing an increased risk of developing T2DM postpartum. Several studies have demonstrated that women with a history of GDM face a substantially higher risk of developing T2DM compared to normoglycemic pregnant women. The long-term consequences of developing T2DM following GDM are significant, as it not only affects the health of the mother but also poses risks to the offspring. The most common risk factors associated with the progression of GDM to T2DM include pregnancy at an advanced age, insulin treatment during pregnancy, and delivering an overweight baby. As GDM women are at higher risk of developing T2DM, effective management strategies such as lifestyle changes, postpartum care, breastfeeding, screening tests, and gaining awareness of risk are crucial to mitigate the risk of T2DM in this population. The current review was conducted to guide healthcare providers and women with a history of GDM about the potential risks of T2DM and management strategies to prevent the condition. This review provides a summary of evidence on the incidence rate of T2DM in GDM patients, its associated risk factors, and approaches to mitigate this challenge.

Predictors and risk factors of short-term and long-term outcomes among women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and their offspring: Moving toward precision prognosis?

As part of the American Diabetes Association Precision Medicine in Diabetes Initiative (PMDI) - a partnership with the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) - this systematic review is part of a comprehensive evidence evaluation in support of the 2 ^nd International Consensus Report on Precision Diabetes Medicine. Here, we sought to synthesize evidence from empirical research papers published through September 1 ^st , 2021 to evaluate and identify prognostic conditions, risk factors, and biomarkers among women and children affected by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), focusing on clinical endpoints of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) among women with a history of GDM; and adiposity and cardiometabolic profile among offspring exposed to GDM in utero. We identified a total of 107 observational studies and 12 randomized controlled trials testing the effect of pharmaceutical and/or lifestyle interventions. Broadly, current literature indicates that greater GDM severity, higher maternal body mass index, belonging to racial/ethnic minority group; and unhealthy lifestyle behaviors would predict a woman's risk of incident T2D and CVD, and an unfavorable cardiometabolic profile among offspring. However, the level of evidence is low (Level 4 according to the Diabetes Canada 2018 Clinical Practice Guidelines for diabetes prognosis) largely because most studies leveraged retrospective data from large registries that are vulnerable to residual confounding and reverse causation bias; and prospective cohort studies that may suffer selection and attrition bias. Moreover, for the offspring outcomes, we identified a relatively small body of literature on prognostic factors indicative of future adiposity and cardiometabolic risk. Future high-quality prospective cohort studies in diverse populations with granular data collection on prognostic factors, clinical and subclinical outcomes, high fidelity of follow-up, and appropriate analytical approaches to deal with structural biases are warranted.

African American Women with Cardiometabolic Complications of Pregnancy Have Decreased Serum Abundance of Specialized Pro-Resolving Lipid Mediators and Endocannabinoids

African American (AA) women experience higher rates of maternal morbidity and mortality compared to US women of other racial/ ethnic groups. Cardiometabolic complications of pregnancy (including gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension, and preeclampsia) are leading contributors to maternal morbidity and mortality. Marked changes in circulating lipids are known to accompany cardiometabolic complications of pregnancy. Serum concentrations of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) have been shown to be inversely correlated with risk for preeclampsia. DHA is a biosynthetic precursor of a class of specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), resolvins, that have anti-inflammatory properties and are also associated with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. We employed targeted lipidomics to characterize the distribution of DHA-containing phospholipids and SPMs in maternal serum collected in early and late pregnancy (8-14 weeks and 24-30 weeks gestation, respectively) to identify key lipids that are dysregulated during pregnancy in AA women who develop cardiometabolic complications. We identified a lipid signature in early pregnancy serum samples of AA women that is predictive of cardiometabolic complications of pregnancy with 74% accuracy. These are Resolvin D1, Resolvin E1, 2-AG, PGE2-glyerol ester, and 36:6 PC. These findings suggest that there are blood-based markers detectable in early pregnancy that can potentially identify persons at risk and tailor clinical interventions.

The Impact of Ethnicity on Fetal and Maternal Outcomes of Gestational Diabetes

Background and Objectives: The prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) significantly varies across different ethnic groups. In particular, Africans, Latinos, Asians and Pacific Islanders are the ethnic groups with the highest risk of GDM. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of ethnicity on pregnancy outcomes in GDM. Patients and Methods: n = 399 patients with GDM were enrolled, n = 76 patients of high-risk ethnicity (HR-GDM), and n = 323 of low-risk ethnicity (LR-GDM). Clinical and biochemical parameters were collected during pregnancy until delivery. Fetal and maternal short-term outcomes were evaluated. Results: HR-GDM had significantly higher values of glycosylated hemoglobin checked at 26−29 weeks of gestation (p < 0.001). Gestational age at delivery was significantly lower in HR-GDM (p = 0.03). The prevalence of impaired fetal growth was significantly higher in HR-GDM than LR-GDM (p = 0.009). In logistic regression analysis, the likelihood of impaired fetal growth was seven times higher in HR-GDM than in LR-GDM, after adjustment for pre-pregnancy BMI and gestational weight gain (OR = 7.1 [2.0−25.7] 95% CI, p = 0.003). Conclusions: HR-GDM had worse pregnancy outcomes compared with LR-GDM. An ethnicity-tailored clinical approach might be effective in reducing adverse outcomes in GDM.

GST T1, M1, and IRS-1 G972R Genetic Variants Association to Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) in Egyptian Women: Linkage to Maternal Hyperglycemia

BACKGROUND

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) shares in part the pathogenic mechanisms of multiple genetic interactions. Some of the T2D susceptibility genes are encountered in association with GDM.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate GST T1, M1, and G972R IRS-I gene polymorphisms with the risk of developing GDM.

METHODS

In this randomized case-control study, pregnant women with GDM were genotyped by PCR analysis for glutathione s-transferase-T1, M1 variant polymorphisms. RFLP was done for the G972R IRS 1 gene. Their newborns were additionally assayed for the whole of the clinical, laboratory, and genetic aspects.

RESULTS

The T allele IRS-1rs1801278 TT genotype was more frequently detected in GDM mothers in comparison to healthy control ones [for TT homozygous variant; OR(CI 95%): 2.05(1.09-3.87, p: 0.025)]. Furthermore, GST T1 null was significantly presented in GDM mothers than those of control mothers [OR (CI95%: 0.29 (0.084-1.02), p:0.04]. Added to the significant correlation of glycemic indices to clinical parameters of infants born to GDM, the M1-null genotype of GST was significantly correlated (p<0.05) to abnormal values of respiratory rates and 1 minute-APGAR score noted for extra NICU care.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggested that GST T1null and IRS-1 TT genotypic variants were claimed for GDM development among Egyptian women with a possible impact on their newly born infants.

Cardiovascular risk factors in women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize evidence on conventional cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors among women with previous Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM). The review protocol is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019118149). PubMed, CINAHL, SCOPUS, and EMBASE databases were searched. Studies reporting on CVD risk factors in women with previous GDM compared to women without previous GDM were selected. A total of 139 studies were eligible, of which 93 were included in the meta-analysis. Women with previous GDM have significantly higher systolic blood pressure (2.47 mmHg 95% CI 1.74 to 3.40, n = 48, 50,118 participants) diastolic blood pressure (1.89 mmHg 95% CI 1.32 to 2.46, n = 48, 49,495 participants), BMI (1.54 kg/m² 95% CI 1.32 to 2.46, n = 78, 255,308 participants), total cholesterol (0.26 SMD 95% CI 0.15 to 0.37, n = 48, 38,561 participants), LDL cholesterol (0.19 SMD 95% CI 0.08 to 0.30, n = 44, 16,980 participants), triglycerides (0.56 SMD 95% CI 0.42 to 0.70, n = 46, 13,175 participants), glucose (0.69 SMD 95% CI 0.56 to 0.81, n = 55, 127,900 participants), insulin (0.41 SMD 95% CI 0.23 to 0.59, n = 32, 8881 participants) and significantly lower HDL cholesterol (-0.28 SMD 95% CI -0.39 to -0.16, n = 56, 35,882 participants), compared to women without previous GDM. The increased blood pressure, total cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose are seen as early as <1 year post-partum.Women with previous GDM have a higher risk of CVD based on significant increases in conventional risk factors. Some risk factors are seen as early as <1 year post-partum. Women with GDM may benefit from early screening to identify modifiable CVD risk factors.

Risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus after gestational diabetes mellitus: A systematic review & meta-analysis

Background &objectives:

Women with gestational diabetes are at an increased risk of being diagnosed as type 2 diabetes, but the postpartum screening rate is low. To provide evidence-based data for health providers and promote postpartum screening, this systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to access the risks of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) diagnosis after gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in different demographic and maternal subgroups.

Methods:

MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library were searched systematically. Unadjusted relative risks (RRs) and 95 per cent confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated and pooled using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed with Cochrane’s Q text and by calculating I² values. Subgroup analyses were conducted to address the disparities of type 2 diabetes conversion after gestational diabetes in different demographic and maternal subgroups.

Results:

1809 publications were screened and 39 cohort studies including 2,847,596 women were selected. In these studies, 78,893 women were diagnosed as T2DM at six weeks or later after delivery. The unadjusted RRs of women diagnosed T2DM at six weeks or later after delivery ranged from 1.32 (95% CI, 0.46-3.37) to 47.25 (95% CI, 2.95-758.01) with a pooled unadjusted RR of 8.92 (95% CI, 7.84-10.14). Older women, women with a family history of diabetes, Black and non-Hispanic White women and women living in Europe and South-East Asia had a higher risk of developing T2DM after GDM.

Interpretation & conclusionsxs:

It is suggested that healthcare providers may focus on older women with GDM and women with GDM and a family history of diabetes. Black and non-Hispanic White women with GDM may receive more attention, and healthcare providers, especially those in Europe and South-East Asia, may pay more attention to preventive measures for postpartum T2DM.

Association between the antepartum oral glucose tolerance test and the risk of future diabetes mellitus among women with gestational diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

The antepartum oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) has re-emerged as associated with risk of diabetes among women with gestational diabetes (GDM). This systematic review summarized evidence on associations between antepartum OGTT and risk of diabetes in GDM (PROSPERO CRD42018100316).

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and CENTRAL were searched from January 1, 1982 to February 2020. Studies assessing associations between antepartum OGTT and risk of diabetes among women with GDM were included. Data on study characteristics, participants, OGTT values, and diabetes outcomes were extracted. Estimates on the association between antepartum OGTT and diabetes at follow-up were recorded. Pooled odds ratios for developing diabetes were calculated by study design.

FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS

Of 6423 citations, 17 studies were included. Both elevated fasting blood glucose (FBG; OR: 3.62 ([95% CI 1.30, 10.12], I² = 36%, p < 0.05)) and 2 h OGTT (OR: 3.96 [1.17, 13.40], I² = 87%, p < 0.05) were associated with diabetes. These associations were attenuated (FBG: OR: 1.91 ([95% CI 0.80, 24.54], I² = 83%, p = NS) and 1.58 ([95% CI 0.92, 2.74] I² = 83%, p = NS) for prospective and retrospective data, respectively; 2 h OGTT: ORa: 1.95 ([95% CI 0.43, 8.93], I² = 94%, p = NS)) after adjustments for common confounders. Further research is needed before clinical recommendations can be made.

Racial and ethnic disparities in chronic health conditions among women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus

Background: This study aims to examine and determine the role of race/ethnicity in chronic conditions in women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) during any of their previous pregnancies. Methods: We used the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from2007-2016 to identify women who self-reported prior GDM and chronic disease diagnoses such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, depression, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).We used bivariate analysis using the chi-square test (χ²) and multiple logistic regressions to perform statistical test for associations, taking into consideration design and sample weight. Results: Among participants with prior GDM diagnoses, black women had a 74.4% prevalence of chronic disease, followed by Whites, 58.5% Hispanics, 58.0%, and Asians, 51.9% (P=0.009).Black women with prior GDM diagnoses had 2.4 odds of having chronic conditions compared to Whites (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]=2.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.28-4.50). In addition, they had higher odds of being former smokers (AOR=1.73, 95% CI=1.01-2.96),current smokers (AOR=1.96, 95% CI=1.06-3.61), having a body mass index (BMI) of 25-29.9(AOR=2.55, 95% CI=1.10-5.87), or a BMI ≥30 (AOR=4.09, 95% CI = 2.05-8.17) compared to their White counterparts. Hispanic women had lower odds of being diagnosed with GDM and associated chronic diseases. Conclusion: Black women with GDM were disproportionally affected and at higher risk to be diagnosed with chronic conditions. Smoking and obesity were strongly associated with chronic disease diagnoses. Our findings also suggest a 'Hispanic Paradox', requiring further study. These findings inform primary care clinicians and Obstetricians, and Gynecologists of at-risk patients who could benefit from lifestyle modification recommendations and counseling.

Progression to type 2 diabetes in women with a known history of gestational diabetes: systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To estimate and compare progression rates to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and healthy controls.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

DATA SOURCES

Medline and Embase between January 2000 and December 2019, studies published in English and conducted on humans.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES

Observational studies investigating progression to T2DM. Inclusion criteria were postpartum follow-up for at least 12 months, incident physician based diagnosis of diabetes, T2DM reported as a separate outcome rather than combined with impaired fasting glucose or impaired glucose tolerance, and studies with both a group of patients with GDM and a control group.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis of 20 studies assessed a total of 1 332 373 individuals (67 956 women with GDM and 1 264 417 controls). Data were pooled by random effects meta-analysis models, and heterogeneity was assessed by use of the I² statistic. The pooled relative risk for the incidence of T2DM between participants with GDM and controls was estimated. Reasons for heterogeneity between studies were investigated by prespecified subgroup and meta-regression analyses. Publication bias was assessed by funnel plots and, overall, studies were deemed to have a low risk of bias (P=0.58 and P=0.90). The overall relative risk for T2DM was almost 10 times higher in women with previous GDM than in healthy controls (9.51, 95% confidence interval 7.14 to 12.67, P<0.001). In populations of women with previous GDM, the cumulative incidence of T2DM was 16.46% (95% confidence interval 16.16% to 16.77%) in women of mixed ethnicity, 15.58% (13.30% to 17.86%) in a predominantly non-white population, and 9.91% (9.39% to 10.42%) in a white population. These differences were not statistically significant between subgroups (white v mixed populations, P=0.26; white v non-white populations, P=0.54). Meta-regression analyses showed that the study effect size was not significantly associated with mean study age, body mass index, publication year, and length of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Women with a history of GDM appear to have a nearly 10-fold higher risk of developing T2DM than those with a normoglycaemic pregnancy. The magnitude of this risk highlights the importance of intervening to prevent the onset of T2DM, particularly in the early years after pregnancy.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42019123079.

Incidence Rate of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus after Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 170,139 Women

OBJECTIVE

The reported incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) after gestational diabetes (GDM) varies widely. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to define the incidence rate of T2DM among women with a history of GDM and to examine what might modulate the rate. Research Design and Methods. We searched PubMed and Embase for terms related to T2DM after GDM up to January 2019. Large cohort studies with sample size ≥300 and follow-up duration of at least one year were included. Data from selected studies were extracted, and meta-analysis was performed using the random-effects model. Subgroups analyses were based on the sample size of gestational diabetes, geographic region, maternal age, body-mass index, diagnostic criteria, and duration of follow-up.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight studies involving 170,139 women with GDM and 34,627 incident cases of T2DM were identified. The pooled incidence of T2DM after GDM was 26.20 (95% CI, 23.31 to 29.10) per 1000 person-years. Women from Asia and those with older age and higher body mass index seem to experience higher risk of developing T2DM. The incidence rate of T2DM was lowest when applying IADPSG (7.16 per 1000 person-years) to diagnose GDM. The risk of developing T2DM after GDM increased linearly with the duration of follow-up. The increments per year of follow-up were estimated at 9.6‰. The estimated risks for T2DM were 19.72% at 10 years, 29.36% at 20 years, 39.00% at 30 years, 48.64% at 40 years, and 58.27% at 50 years, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of very high incidence of T2DM after GDM add an important insight into the trajectory of the development of T2DM in the long-term postpartum periods, which could provide evidence for consultant and might motivate more women with GDM to screen for T2DM. This trial is registered with PROSPERO identifier CRD42019128980.

The Risk for Glucose Intolerance after Gestational Diabetes Mellitus since the Introduction of the IADPSG Criteria: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The aim of the study was to assess the postpartum risk for glucose intolerance since the introduction of the ‘International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups’ (IADPSG) criteria for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Studies published since 2010 were included, which evaluated the risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and cardiovascular (CV) events in women with previous GDM compared to normal glucose tolerant women. We included forty-three studies, evaluating 4,923,571 pregnant women of which 5.8% (284,312) had a history of GDM. Five studies used IADPSG criteria (n = 6174 women, 1314 with GDM). The overall pooled relative risk (RR) for postpartum T2DM was 7.42 (95% CI: 5.99–9.19) and the RR for postpartum T2DM with IADPSG criteria was 6.45 (95% CI: 4.74–8.77) compared to the RR of 9.08 (95% CI: 6.96–11.85; p = 0.17) for postpartum T2DM based on other diagnostic criteria. The RR for postpartum IGT was 2.45 (95% CI: 1.92–3.13), independent of the criteria used. None of the available studies with IADPSG criteria evaluated the risk for CV events. Women with a history of GDM based on the IADPSG criteria have a similarly increased risk for postpartum glucose intolerance compared to GDM based on other diagnostic criteria. More studies with GDM based on the IADPSG criteria are needed to increase the quality of evidence concerning the long-term metabolic risk.

Progression to type 2 diabetes mellitus and associated risk factors after hyperglycemia first detected in pregnancy: A cross-sectional study in Cape Town, South Africa

BACKGROUND

Global data indicate that women with a history of hyperglycemia first detected in pregnancy (HFDP) are at up to 7 times risk of progressing to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) compared with their counterparts who have pregnancies that are not complicated by hyperglycemia. However, there are no data from the sub-Saharan African region, which has the highest projected rise in diabetes prevalence globally. The aim of this study was to determine the proportion of women who progress to T2DM and associated risk factors 5 to 6 years after HFDP in Cape Town, South Africa.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

All women with HFDP, at a major referral hospital in Cape Town, were followed up 5 to 6 years later using a cross-sectional study. Each participant had a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test; anthropometric measurements and a survey were administered. A total of 220 participants were followed up. At this time, their mean age was 37.2 years (SD 6.0). Forty-eight percent (95% CI 41.2-54.4) progressed to T2DM, 5.5% (95% CI 3.1-9.4) had impaired fasting glucose, and 10.5% (95% CI 7.0-15.3) had impaired glucose tolerance. Of the participants who progressed to T2DM, 47% were unaware of their diabetes status. When HFDP was categorized post hoc according to WHO 2013 guidelines, progression in the diabetes in pregnancy (DIP) group was 81% (95% CI 70.2-89.0) and 31.3% (95% CI 24.4-39.3) in the gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) category. Factors associated with risk of progression to T2DM were; at follow-up: waist circumference (odds ratios [OR] 1.1, 95% CI 1.0-1.1, p = 0.007), hip circumference (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.8-1.0, p = 0.001), and BMI (OR 1.1, 95% CI 1.0-1.3, p = 0.001), and at baseline: insulin (OR 25.8, 95% CI 3.9-171.4, p = 0.001) and oral hypoglycaemic treatment during HFDP (OR 4.1, 95% CI 1.3-12.9, p = 0.018), fasting (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.5-4.8, p = 0.001), and oral glucose tolerance test 2-hour glucose concentration at HFDP diagnosis (OR 4.3, 95% CI 2.4-7.7, p < 0.001). Our findings have limitations in that we did not include a control group of women without a history of HFDP.

CONCLUSIONS

The progression to T2DM in women with previous HFDP found in this study highlights the need for interventions to delay or prevent progression to T2DM after HFDP. In addition, interventions to prevent HFDP may also contribute to reducing the risk of T2DM.

Relationship Between Pregnancy Complications and Subsequent Coronary Artery Disease Assessed by Coronary Computed Tomographic Angiography in Black Women

BACKGROUND

Maternal pregnancy complications, particularly preeclampsia and gestational diabetes mellitus, are described to increase the risk for subsequent coronary artery disease (CAD). In addition, black women are at higher risk for CAD. The objective of this study was to compare the prevalence and extent of CAD as detected by coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) in black women with and without a history of prior pregnancy complications.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated patient characteristics and CCTA findings in groups of black women with a prior history of preterm delivery (n=154), preeclampsia (n=137), or gestational diabetes mellitus (n=148), and a matched control group of black women who gave birth without such complications (n=445). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess risk factors of CAD.

RESULTS

All groups with prior pregnancy complications showed higher rates of any (≥20% luminal narrowing) and obstructive (≥50% luminal narrowing) CAD (preterm delivery: 29.2% and 9.1%; preeclampsia: 29.2% and 7.3%; and gestational diabetes mellitus: 47.3% and 15.5%) compared with control women (23.8% and 5.4%). After accounting for confounding factors at multivariate analysis, gestational diabetes mellitus remained a strong risk factor of any (odds ratio, 3.26; 95% CI, 2.03-5.22; P<0.001) and obstructive CAD (odds ratio, 3.00; 95% CI, 1.55-5.80; P<0.001) on CCTA.

CONCLUSIONS

Black women with a history of pregnancy complications, particularly gestational diabetes mellitus, have a higher prevalence of CAD on CCTA while only a history of gestational diabetes mellitus was independently associated with any and obstructive CAD on CCTA.

Postpartum assessment of the beta cell function and insulin resistance for Chinese women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) imparts a high risk of developing postpartum diabetes and is considered to be an early stage of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In this study, a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test was performed on 472 women with GDM at 6-8 weeks after delivery. The clinical and metabolic characteristics were compared between the patients with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and abnormal glucose metabolism (AGM). These data were then compared between pre-diabetic and diabetic patients. A total of 37.7% of the women with GDM continued to have abnormal glucose levels after delivery. Compared with the women who reverted to normal, HOMA-IR was significantly higher in AGM. A multiple stepwise regression analysis revealed that age, the postpartum body mass index (BMI), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), 2 h glucose load plasma glucose (2 h PG), triglycerides (TG), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), 1 h glucose load plasma insulin (INS) level, and 2 h INS level were independent risk factors for the development of insulin resistance after delivery. This study has identified a high prevalence of AGM after GDM. Insulin resistance appears to be the major contributor. Any treatment to reduce the postpartum BMI and lipids level may be beneficial to decrease insulin resistance.

Prevalence of glucose intolerance and metabolic syndrome within one year following delivery of a pregnancy complicated by gestational diabetes

Background

Women with a history of gestational diabetes (GDM) are at risk for development of both overt Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) at higher rates and at earlier ages than control women. Current guidelines recommend longitudinal testing of glucose tolerance for women with prior GDM, but no formal assessments of cardiovascular disease are suggested. This study estimated the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in women with GDM in recent pregnancy who were followed for at least 1 year postpartum to quantify their cardiovascular risks.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of women who were diagnosed with GDM in a public hospital and followed for at least 1 year after delivery and who had tests performed at a minimum 4–12 weeks postpartum and 6 and 12 months postpartum. Primary outcomes were prevalence of glucose tolerance abnormalities and metabolic syndrome (MetS) defined by two prevailing sets of diagnostic criteria.

Results

One hundred fifty-one indigent, primarily Latina women who had been diagnosed in their last pregnancy with GDM comprised the study population. At the first visit postpartum, 4.7% were found to have overt diabetes and between 24 and 31% met the criteria for MetS. By the end of 12 months, another 14.5% were diagnosed with overt diabetes, and 38.5% had prediabetes. An additional 12–25% of the woman who had not had MetS at baseline developed MetS by the end of the 1-year follow-up.

Conclusions

Given the high prevalence of MetS among women with recent history of GDM immediately postpartum and its rapid development in the following year, further research is needed to enable the development of practice guidelines that will define appropriate short and long-term evaluations needed to assess risk for cardiovascular disease in these women.

Gestational diabetes with diabetes and prediabetes risks: a large observational study

AIMS

To compare risks of early postpartum diabetes and prediabetes in Chinese women with and without gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) during pregnancy.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Tianjin GDM observational study included 1263 women with a history of GDM and 705 women without GDM who participated in the urban GDM universal screening survey by using World Health Organization's criteria. Postpartum diabetes and prediabetes were identified after a standard oral glucose tolerance test. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to assess risks of postpartum diabetes and prediabetes between women with and without GDM.

RESULTS

During a mean follow-up of 3.53 years postpartum, 90 incident cases of diabetes and 599 incident cases of prediabetes were identified. Multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios among women with prior GDM, compared with those without it, were 76.1 (95% CI: 23.6-246) for diabetes and 25.4 (95% CI: 18.2-35.3) for prediabetes. When the mean follow-up extended to 4.40 years, 121 diabetes and 616 prediabetes cases were identified. Women with prior GDM had a 13.0-fold multivariable-adjusted risk (95% CI: 5.54-30.6) for diabetes and 2.15-fold risk (95% CI: 1.76-2.62) for prediabetes compared with women without GDM. The positive associations between GDM and the risks of postpartum diabetes and prediabetes were significant and persistent when stratified by younger and older than 30 years at delivery and normal weight and overweight participants.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study indicated that women with prior GDM had significantly increased risks for postpartum diabetes and prediabetes, with the highest risk at the first 3-4 years after delivery, compared with those without GDM.

One-year weight losses in the Tianjin Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Prevention Programme: A randomized clinical trial

AIMS

To report the weight loss findings after the first year of a lifestyle intervention trial among women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

METHODS

A total of 1180 women with GDM were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive a 4-year lifestyle intervention (intervention group, n = 586) or standard care (control group, n = 594) between August 2009 and July 2011. Major elements of the intervention included 6 face-to-face sessions with study dieticians and two telephone calls in the first year, and two individual sessions and two telephone calls in each subsequent year.

RESULTS

Among 79% of participants who completed the year 1 trial, mean weight loss was 0.82 kg (1.12% of initial weight) in the intervention group and 0.09 kg (0.03% of initial weight) in the control group (P = .001). In a prespecified subgroup analysis of people who completed the trial, weight loss was more pronounced in women who were overweight (body mass index ≥24 kg/m² ) at baseline: mean weight loss 2.01 kg (2.87% of initial weight) in the intervention group and 0.44 kg (0.52% of initial weight) in the control group (P < .001). Compared with those in the control group, women in the intervention group had a greater decrease in waist circumference (1.76 cm vs 0.73 cm; P = .003) and body fat (0.50% vs 0.05% increase; P = .001).

CONCLUSION

The 1-year lifestyle intervention led to significant weight losses after delivery in women who had GDM, and the effect was more pronounced in women who were overweight at baseline.

Association Between Gestational Diabetes and Incident Maternal CKD: The Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study

BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with increased risk for diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. We evaluated whether GDM is associated with incident chronic kidney disease (CKD), controlling for prepregnancy risk factors for both conditions.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective cohort.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

Of 2,747 women (aged 18-30 years) enrolled in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study in 1985 to 86, we studied 820 who were nulliparous at enrollment, delivered at least 1 pregnancy longer than 20 weeks' gestation, and had kidney function measurements during 25 years of follow-up.

PREDICTOR

GDM was self-reported by women for each pregnancy.

OUTCOMES

CKD was defined as the development of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)<60mL/min/1.73m2 or urine albumin-creatinine ratio ≥ 25mg/g at any one CARDIA examination in years 10, 15, 20, or 25.

MEASUREMENTS

HRs for developing CKD were estimated for women who developed GDM versus women without GDM using complementary log-log models, adjusting for prepregnancy age, systolic blood pressure, dyslipidemia, body mass index, smoking, education, eGFR, fasting glucose concentration, physical activity level (all measured at the CARDIA examination before the first pregnancy), race, and family history of diabetes. We explored for an interaction between race and GDM.

RESULTS

During a mean follow-up of 20.8 years, 105 of 820 (12.8%) women developed CKD, predominantly increased urine albumin excretion (98 albuminuria only, 4 decreased eGFR only, and 3 both). There was evidence of a GDM-race interaction on CKD risk (P=0.06). Among black women, the adjusted HR for CKD was 1.96 (95% CI, 1.04-3.67) in GDM compared with those without GDM. Among white women, the HR was 0.65 (95% CI, 0.23-1.83).

LIMITATIONS

Albuminuria was assessed by single untimed measurements of urine albumin and creatinine.

CONCLUSIONS

GDM is associated with the subsequent development of albuminuria among black women in CARDIA.

As influências da raça/cor nos desfechos obstétricos e neonatais desfavoráveis

RESUMO Trata-se de um estudo transversal, que avaliou as influências da raça/cor nos desfechos obstétricos e neonatais desfavoráveis. Foram construídos modelos de regressão logística para cálculo de razão de chance e exame do risco materno e neonatal. As gestantes negras prevaleceram com significância estatística entre aquelas com baixa escolaridade, hipertensão prévia, três ou mais filhos vivos e com ocupação. As gestantes negras não apresentaram maior risco nos desfechos desfavoráveis. A raça/cor não se comporta como um marcador genético ou biológico, mas como construto social, que pode influenciar as condições de saúde enquanto determinante social.

Ethnic variations on gestational diabetes mellitus and evidence-based first-line interventions

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES

To analyze the cultural and ethnic impact of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), report the associated complications, and investigate how lifestyle interventions are effective in preventing these associated complications.

METHODS

A literature review was conducted using online databases like CINAHL and Cochrane review. Findings were limited to journal articles published between 2012 and 2017. Irrelevant and relevant articles were determined by research topic, specific population, and type of interventions.

RESULTS

Due to the growing rate of Hispanics, this ethnic group will have the most impact of GDM. There is a link between the prevalence of GDM and being classified as obese or overweight among women of childbearing age. Differences in perinatal outcomes were noted in different ethnicities especially between Hispanic and Caucasian women. Higher prevalence of GDM did not equal higher impact. In fact, the ethnicity with the highest rate tends to have the lowest impact. Lifestyle interventions reduced the rate and impact of complications of GDM.

CONCLUSIONS

There is ethnic variation on the impact of GDM, with the Hispanic women having the most prevalence. Lifestyle interventions such as diet and exercise should be the first-line therapy for all women with GDM.

Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus following Gestational Diabetes Pregnancy in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

BACKGROUND

This study examines gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) following GDM pregnancy.

METHODS

A cohort of 988 pregnant women with PCOS who delivered during 2002-2005 was examined to determine the prevalence and predictors of GDM, with follow-up through 2010 among those with GDM to estimate the risk of DM.

RESULTS

Of the 988 pregnant women with PCOS, 192 (19%) developed GDM. Multivariable predictors of GDM included older age, Asian race, prepregnancy obesity, family history of DM, preconception metformin use, and multiple gestation. Among women with PCOS and GDM pregnancy, the incidence of DM was 2.8 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.9-4.2) per 100 person-years and substantially higher for those who received pharmacologic treatment for GDM (6.6 versus 1.5 per 100 person-years, p < 0.01). The multivariable adjusted risk of DM was fourfold higher in women who received pharmacologic treatment for GDM (adjusted hazard ratio 4.1, 95% CI 1.8-9.6). The five-year incidence of DM was 13.1% overall and also higher in the pharmacologic treatment subgroup (27.0% versus 7.1%, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The strongest predictors of GDM among women with PCOS included Asian race and prepregnancy obesity. Pharmacologic treatment of GDM is associated with fourfold higher risk of subsequent DM.

Quantification of the type 2 diabetes risk in women with gestational diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 95,750 women

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, but individualised risk estimates are unknown. We conducted a meta-analysis to quantify the risk of progression to type 2 diabetes for women with GDM.

METHODS

We systematically searched the major electronic databases with no language restrictions. Two reviewers independently extracted 2 × 2 tables for dichotomous data and the means plus SEs for continuous data. Risk ratios were calculated and pooled using a random effects model.

RESULTS

There were 39 relevant studies (including 95,750 women) BMI (RR 1.95 [95% CI 1.60, 2.31]), family history of diabetes (RR 1.70 [95% CI 1.47, 1.97]), non-white ethnicity (RR 1.49 [95% CI 1.14, 1.94]) and advanced maternal age (RR 1.20 [95% CI 1.09, 1.34]) were associated with future risk of type 2 diabetes. There was an increase in risk with early diagnosis of GDM (RR 2.13 [95% CI 1.52, 3.56]), raised fasting glucose (RR 3.57 [95% CI 2.98, 4.04]), increased HbA1c (RR 2.56 [95% CI 2.00, 3.17]) and use of insulin (RR 3.66 [95% CI 2.78, 4.82]). Multiparity (RR 1.23 [95% CI 1.01, 1.50]), hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (RR 1.38 [95% CI 1.32, 1.45]) and preterm delivery (RR 1.81 [95% CI 1.35, 2.43]) were associated with future diabetes. Gestational weight gain, macrosomia in the offspring or breastfeeding did not increase the risk.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Personalised risk of progression to type 2 diabetes should be communicated to mothers with GDM.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO CRD42014013597.

Perspectives on prevention of type 2 diabetes after gestational diabetes: a qualitative study of Hispanic, African-American and White women

Women with gestational diabetes (GDM) have a fivefold higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Furthermore, Hispanic and African-American women are disproportionately affected by GDM, but their views on prevention of T2DM after gestational diabetes are largely unknown. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 23 women (8 Hispanic, 8 African-American, 7 non-Hispanic White) from two academic clinics in Chicago, IL. Interview questions elicited perspectives on prevention of T2DM; the interview protocol was developed based on the Health Belief Model. Two investigators applied template analysis to identify emergent themes. Women conceptualized risk for T2DM based on family history, health behaviors, and personal history of GDM. A subgroup of women expressed uncertainty about how GDM influences risk for T2DM. Women who described a strong link between GDM and T2DM often viewed the diagnosis as a cue to action for behavior change. T2DM was widely viewed as a severe condition, and desire to avoid T2DM was an important motivator for behavior change. Children represented both a key motivator and critical barrier to behavior change. Women viewed preventive care as important to alert them to potential health concerns. Identified themes were congruent across racial/ethnic groups. Diagnosis with GDM presents a potent opportunity for engaging women in behavior change. To fully harness the potential influence of this diagnosis, healthcare providers should more clearly link the diagnosis of GDM with risk for future T2DM, leverage women's focus on their children to motivate behavior change, and provide support with behavior change during healthcare visits in the postpartum period and beyond.

Comparison of the heart failure risk stratification performance of the CKD-EPI equation and the MDRD equation for estimated glomerular filtration rate in patients with Type 2 diabetes

AIMS

To investigate the risk prediction and the risk stratification performances of the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation and the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) equation for estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFRCKD - EPI vs. eGFRMDRD ) on heart failure in patients with Type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

The study cohort included 12 258 White and 16 886 African American low-income patients with Type 2 diabetes who were 30-90 years old at baseline. Heart failure risk according to different eGFRCKD - EPI and eGFRMDRD categories was prospectively assessed.

RESULTS

During a mean follow-up of 6.5 years, 5043 incident heart failure cases were identified. Multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) of heart failure associated with the eGFRCKD - EPI categories [≥ 90 (reference group), 75-89, 60-74, 30-59 and < 30 ml/min/1.73 m(2) ] were 1.00, 1.11, 1.31, 1.75 and 2.93 (Ptrend < 0.001) for African American patients, and 1.00, 1.11, 1.08, 1.59 and 2.92 (Ptrend < 0.001) for White patients, respectively. The model with eGFRCKD - EPI and the other risk factors had significantly higher Harrell's C than the model with eGFRMDRD and other risk factors. Patients reclassified downward from eGFRMDRD 60-74 to eGFRCKD - EPI 30-59 and from eGFRMDRD 30-59 to eGFRCKD - EPI < 30 ml/min/1.73 m(2) showed higher heart failure risk than those who were not reclassified.

CONCLUSIONS

Impaired kidney function (i.e. GFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m(2) ), and even mildly decreased GFR (60-74 ml/min/1.73 m(2) ) estimated by both equations is associated with an increased risk of heart failure. Compared with GFR estimated using the MDRD equation, GFR estimated using the CKD-EPI equation added more predictive power to the model with the other risk factors. Also, eGFRCKD - EPI provided more accurate heart failure risk stratification than eGFRMDRD .

Insertion and deletion polymorphism in the alpha-2B adrenoceptor gene in pregnant women ripens gestational diabetes mellitus

There are no earlier studies that reported the association of the 12Glu9 polymorphism in the alpha-2B adrenoceptor (ADRA2B) gene with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). We examined the potential association between the ADRA2B gene insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism in the Saudi population with GDM. Pregnant women with GDM have been reported to exhibit the same susceptibility as that observed in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We have selected I/D polymorphism of the ADRA2B gene located in chromosome 2q11.1 that has been extensively related to T2DM and cardiovascular diseases. This case–control study was conducted with 200 GDM and 300 non-GDM pregnant women. Genotyping of I/D polymorphism was performed by conventional PCR method. Biochemical analyses were found to be significantly different between GDM and non-GDM subjects (p < 0.05). Genotype (ID + DD vs II, p = 0.0002) and allele (D vs I, p = 0.0002) frequencies of the 12Glu9 polymorphism were found to be statistically significant. However, a significant difference was found between allele and genotypes of I/D polymorphism of the ADRA2B gene or the clinical characteristics of the subjects. Our results obtained in this study indicate the ADRA2B gene in the Saudi women was associated with the development of GDM.

Fasting and 2-hour plasma glucose, and HbA1c in pregnancy and the postpartum risk of diabetes among Chinese women with gestational diabetes

AIMS

Very few studies have assessed the association of fasting and 2h glucose, and HbA1c during pregnancy with postpartum diabetes risk among women with prior gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). We assessed the association of fasting glucose, 2h glucose and HbA1c at 26-30 gestational weeks with postpartum diabetes risk among women with prior GDM.

METHODS

A cohort study in 1263 GDM women at 1-5 years after delivery was performed. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to evaluate the association of fasting and 2h plasma glucose, and HbA1c at 26-30 gestational weeks with the risk of diabetes at postpartum.

RESULTS

The multivariable-adjusted (age, pre-pregnancy body mass index, weight gain during pregnancy, current body mass index, family history of diabetes, marital status, education, family income, smoking status, passive smoking, leisure-time physical activity, alcohol drinking, and intake of energy, saturated fat, and dietary fiber) hazard ratios of postpartum diabetes were 1.61 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.36-1.91) for each 1 mmol/l increase in fasting glucose during pregnancy, 1.63 (95% CI: 1.45-1.84) for each 1 mmol/l increase in 2h glucose during pregnancy, 2.11 (95% CI: 1.50-2.97) for each 1 unit (%) increase in HbA1c during pregnancy. When fasting glucose, 2h glucose and HbA1c during pregnancy were entered multivariable-adjusted model simultaneously, 2h glucose and HbA1c but not fasting glucose remained to be significant and positive predictors for postpartum diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

For women with prior GDM, 2h plasma glucose and HbA1c during pregnancy are independent predictors of postpartum diabetes, but fasting plasma glucose during pregnancy is not.

Prevalence of Gestational Diabetes and Risk of Progression to Type 2 Diabetes: a Global Perspective

Despite the increasing epidemic of diabetes mellitus affecting populations at different life stages, the global burden of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is not well assessed. Systematically synthesized data on global prevalence estimates of GDM are lacking, particularly among developing countries. The hyperglycemic intrauterine environment as exemplified in pregnancies complicated by GDM might not only reflect but also fuel the epidemic of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We comprehensively reviewed available data in the past decade in an attempt to estimate the contemporary global prevalence of GDM by country and region. We reviewed the risk of progression from GDM to T2DM as well. Synthesized data demonstrate wide variations in both prevalence estimates of GDM and the risk of progression from GDM to T2DM. Direct comparisons of GDM burden across countries or regions are challenging given the great heterogeneity in screening approaches, diagnostic criteria, and underlying population characteristics. In this regard, collaborative efforts to estimate global GDM prevalence would be a large but important leap forward. Such efforts may have substantial public health implications in terms of informing health policy makers and healthcare providers for disease burden and for developing more targeted and effective diabetes prevention and management strategies globally.

Disparities in postpartum follow-up in women with gestational diabetes mellitus

In Brief Postpartum follow-up for patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is essential to manage future disease risk. In a diverse, urban population of GDM patients at a major medical center, high fasting glucose, high BMI at diagnosis, and low education level were associated with not following up in the endocrinology clinic after delivery; patients least likely to follow up are, therefore, also at greatest risk of GDM complications. Although race/ethnicity was not a significant predictor of follow-up, Hispanic/Latina and African-American patients were more likely to have risk factors for postpartum clinical attrition.

Racial disparities in cardiovascular risk factor control in an underinsured population with Type 2 diabetes

AIM

To investigate the race-specific trend in attainment of the American Diabetes Association cardiovascular risk factor control goals (HbA1c <53 mmol/mol (7.0%), blood pressure <130/80 mmHg and LDL cholesterol <2.6mmol/l) by patients with Type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

The study sample included 14 946 African-American and 12 758 white patients who were newly diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes between 2001 and 2009 in the Louisiana State University Hospital system. The race-specific percentages of patients' attainment of American Diabetes Association goals were calculated using the baseline and follow-up measurements of HbA1c , blood pressure, and LDL cholesterol levels. Logistic regression was used to test the difference between African-American and white patients.

RESULTS

The percentage of patients who met all three American Diabetes Association goals increased from 8.2% in 2001 to 10.2% in 2009 (increased by 24.4%) in this cohort. Compared with African-American patients, white patients had better attainment of the following American Diabetes Association goals: HbA1c (61.4 vs. 55.1%), blood pressure (25.8 vs. 20.4%), LDL cholesterol (40.1 vs. 37.7%) and all three goals (7.3 vs. 5.1%). African-American and white patients generally had a better cardiovascular disease risk factor profile during follow-up when we assessed attainment of the American Diabetes Association goals by means of HbA1c , blood pressure and LDL cholesterol.

CONCLUSIONS

During 2001-2009, the present low-income cohort of people with Type 2 diabetes generally experienced improved control of cardiovascular disease risk factors. White patients had better attainment of the American Diabetes Association cardiovascular risk factor control goals than their African-American counterparts.

Relationship between the paraoxonase 1 gene glutamine 192 to arginine polymorphism and gestational diabetes mellitus in Saudi women

OBJECTIVES

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is recognized as an imbalance between insulin resistance and insulin secretion, leading to maternal hyperglycemia. Previous studies in a Saudi population indicated a high frequency of Paraoxonase 1 glutamine 192 to arginine (PON1 Q192R) polymorphism, suggesting this polymorphism as an additional risk factor. The present study was designed to explore the possible association between the PON1 Q192R polymorphism and GDM in a Saudi population.

METHODS

This case-control study was carried out in 500 pregnant women, including 200 GDM cases and 300 non-GDM women. Genotyping for PON1 Q192R (rs662) variants was performed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).

RESULTS

The results of the present study indicates that Q192R polymorphism was significantly associated with GDM in a Saudi population with the minor allele frequency (MAF) (p=0.0007). Q192R genotypes and alleles showed a strong association with GDM (p=0.009 and p=0.0007, respectively).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, these findings suggest that the PON1 Q192R polymorphism has high MAF in GDM in the studied Saudi population.

Sex differences in the risk of stroke and HbA(1c) among diabetic patients

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Sex differences in macrovascular disease, especially in stroke, are observed across studies of epidemiology. We studied a large sample of patients with type 2 diabetes to better understand the relationship between glycaemic control and stroke risk.

METHODS

We prospectively investigated the sex-specific association between different levels of HbA(1c) and incident stroke risk among 10,876 male and 19,278 female patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESULTS

During a mean follow-up of 6.7 years, 2,949 incident cases of stroke were identified. The multivariable-adjusted HRs of stroke associated with different levels of HbA(1c) at baseline (HbA(1c) <6.0% [<42 mmol/mol], 6.0-6.9% [42-52 mmol/mol] [reference group], 7.0-7.9% [53-63 mmol/mol], 8.0-8.9% [64-74 mmol/mol], 9.0-9.9% [75-85 mmol/mol] and ≥10.0% [≥86 mmol/mol]) were 0.96 (95% CI 0.80, 1.14), 1.00, 1.04 (0.85, 1.28), 1.11 (0.89, 1.39), 1.10 (0.86, 1.41) and 1.22 (0.92, 1.35) (p for trend = 0.66) for men, and 1.03 (0.90, 1.18), 1.00, 1.09 (0.94, 1.26), 1.19 (1.00, 1.42), 1.32 (1.09, 1.59) and 1.42 (1.23, 1.65) (p for trend <0.001) for women, respectively. The graded association between HbA(1c) during follow-up and stroke risk was observed among women (p for trend = 0.066). When stratified by race, whether with or without glucose-lowering agents, this graded association of HbA(1c) with stroke was still present among women. When stratified by age, the adjusted HRs were significantly higher in women older than 55 years compared with younger women.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

The current study suggests a graded association between HbA1c and the risk of stroke among women with type 2 diabetes. Poor control of blood sugar has a stronger effect in diabetic women older than 55 years.

Maternal outcomes and follow-up after gestational diabetes mellitus

Gestational diabetes mellitus reflects impaired maternal insulin secretion relative to demand prior to pregnancy, as well as temporary metabolic stressors imposed by the placenta and fetus. Thus, after delivery, women with gestational diabetes have increased risk of diabetes and recurrent gestational diabetes because of their underlying impairment, which may be further exacerbated by fat accretion during pregnancy and post-partum deterioration in lifestyle behaviours. This hypothetical model is discussed in greater detail, particularly the uncertainty regarding pregnancy as an accelerator of β-cell decline and the role of gestational weight gain. This report also presents risk estimates for future glucose intolerance and diabetes and reviews modifiable risk factors, particularly body mass and lifestyle alterations, including weight loss and breastfeeding. Non-modifiable risk factors such as race/ethnicity and insulin use during pregnancy are also discussed. The review concludes with current literature on lifestyle modification, recommendations for post-partum glucose screening, and future directions for research to prevent maternal disease.

Insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) Gly927Arg: correlation with gestational diabetes mellitus in Saudi women

Pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) share a common pathophysiology associated with similar risk factors. Genetic variants used to determine the risk of developing T2DM might also be associated with the prevalence of GDM. The aim of the present study was to scrutinize the relationship between the G972R polymorphism of the insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) gene with GDM in the Saudi female population. This is a case-control study that monitored 500 Saudi women. Subjects with GDM (n = 200) were compared with non-GDM (n = 300) controls. We opted to evaluate rs1801278 polymorphism in the IRS1 gene, which plays a critical role in the insulin-signaling pathway. Genotyping was performed with the Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. The frequency of the rs1801278 polymorphism was significantly higher in women with GDM than in women with non-GDM (for TT + CT versus CC: P = 0.02). Additionally, there was a significant increase in the frequency of the Arg-encoding mutant allele from GDM to non-GDM (for T versus C: P = 0.01). Our results suggest that the rs1801278 polymorphism in the IRS-1 gene is involved in the occurrence of GDM in the Saudi population.

HbA1c and coronary heart disease risk among diabetic patients

OBJECTIVE

Clinical trials to date have not provided definitive evidence regarding the effects of glucose lowering with coronary heart disease (CHD) risk among diabetic patients.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We prospectively investigated the association of HbA1c at baseline and during follow-up with CHD risk among 17,510 African American and 12,592 white patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESULTS

During a mean follow-up of 6.0 years, 7,258 incident CHD cases were identified. The multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios of CHD associated with different levels of HbA1c at baseline (<6.0 [reference group], 6.0-6.9, 7.0-7.9, 8.0-8.9, 9.0-9.9, 10.0-10.9, and ≥11.0%) were 1.00, 1.07 (95% CI 0.97-1.18), 1.16 (1.04-1.31), 1.15 (1.01-1.32), 1.26 (1.09-1.45), 1.27 (1.09-1.48), and 1.24 (1.10-1.40) (P trend = 0.002) for African Americans and 1.00, 1.04 (0.94-1.14), 1.15 (1.03-1.28), 1.29 (1.13-1.46), 1.41 (1.22-1.62), 1.34 (1.14-1.57), and 1.44 (1.26-1.65) (P trend <0.001) for white patients, respectively. The graded association of HbA1c during follow-up with CHD risk was observed among both African American and white diabetic patients (all P trend <0.001). Each one percentage increase of HbA1c was associated with a greater increase in CHD risk in white versus African American diabetic patients. When stratified by sex, age, smoking status, use of glucose-lowering agents, and income, this graded association of HbA1c with CHD was still present.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study in a low-income population suggests a graded positive association between HbA1c at baseline and during follow-up with the risk of CHD among both African American and white diabetic patients with low socioeconomic status.

HbA1c and lower-extremity amputation risk in low-income patients with diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes confers a very high risk of lower-extremity amputation (LEA); however, few studies have assessed whether blood glucose control can reduce LEA risk among patients with diabetes, especially in practice settings where low-income patients predominate.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed a prospective cohort study (2000-2009) on patients with diabetes that included 19,808 African Americans and 15,560 whites. The cohort was followed though 31 May 2012. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate the association of HbA1c with LEA risk.

RESULTS

During a mean follow-up of 6.83 years, 578 LEA incident cases were identified. The multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios of LEA associated with different levels of HbA1c at baseline (<6.0% [reference group], 6.0-6.9, 7.0-7.9, 8.0-8.9, 9.0-9.9, and ≥10.0%) were 1.00, 1.73 (95% CI 1.07-2.80), 1.65 (0.99-2.77), 1.96 (1.14-3.36), 3.02 (1.81-5.04), and 3.30 (2.10-5.20) (P trend <0.001) for African American patients with diabetes and 1.00, 1.16 (0.66-2.02), 2.28 (1.35-3.85), 2.38 (1.36-4.18), 2.99 (1.71-5.22), and 3.25 (1.98-5.33) (P trend <0.001) for white patients with diabetes, respectively. The graded positive association of HbA1c during follow-up with LEA risk was observed among both African American and white patients with diabetes (all P trend <0.001). With stratification by sex, age, smoking status, blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, BMI, use of glucose-lowering agents, and income, this graded association of HbA1c with LEA was still present.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study conducted in a low-income population suggests a graded association between HbA1c and the risk of LEA among both African American and white patients with type 2 diabetes.

Kidney function and the risk of cardiovascular disease in patients with type 2 diabetes

The association of estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) with cardiovascular disease risk among patients with type 2 diabetes is unclear. Here we prospectively investigated the race-specific association of estimated GFR with the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke among 11,940 Caucasian and 16,451 African-American patients. During mean follow-up of 6.1-6.8 years, 6647 coronary heart disease and 2750 stroke incident cases were identified. Age- and sex-adjusted hazard ratios of coronary heart disease associated with baseline estimated GFR (90 or more, 75-89, 60-74, 30-59, and 15-29 ml/min per 1.73 m2) were 1.00, 1.04, 1.13, 1.37, and 2.07 (significant trend) for African Americans, and 1.00, 1.09, 1.10, 1.31, and 2.18 (significant trend) for Caucasians, respectively. A significantly increased stroke risk was observed among both African-American and Caucasian participants with an estimated GFR under 60 ml/min per 1.73 m2. When using the updated mean values of estimated GFR, these significant associations became stronger. Participants with mildly decreased estimated GFR (60-89 ml/min per 1.73 m2) during follow-up were also at a significantly higher risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. Thus, even mildly reduced estimated GFR at baseline (under 75 ml/min per 1.73 m2) and during follow-up (under 90 ml/min per 1.73 m2) increased the risk of incident coronary heart disease and stroke among both African-American and Caucasian type 2 diabetes patients.

Aggressive blood pressure control increases coronary heart disease risk among diabetic patients

OBJECTIVE

Blood pressure control can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) among diabetic patients; however, it is not known whether the lowest risk of CHD is among diabetic patients with the lowest blood pressure level.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed a prospective cohort study (2000-2009) on diabetic patients including 17,536 African Americans and 12,618 whites. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate the association of blood pressure with CHD risk.

RESULTS

During a mean follow-up of 6.0 years, 7,260 CHD incident cases were identified. The multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios of CHD associated with different levels of systolic/diastolic blood pressure at baseline (<110/65, 110-119/65-69, 120-129/70-80, and 130-139/80-90 mmHg [reference group]; 140-159/90-100; and ≥160/100 mmHg) were 1.73, 1.16, 1.04, 1.00, 1.06, and 1.11 (P trend<0.001), respectively, for African American diabetic patients, and 1.60, 1.27, 1.08, 1.00, 0.95, and 0.99 (P trend<0.001) for white diabetic patients, respectively. A U-shaped association of isolated systolic and diastolic blood pressure at baseline as well as blood pressure during follow-up with CHD risk was observed among both African American and white diabetic patients (all Ptrend<0.001). The U-shaped association was present in the younger age-group (30-49 years), and this U-shaped association changed to an inverse association in the older age-group (≥60 years).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that there is a U-shaped or inverse association between blood pressure and the risk of CHD, and aggressive blood pressure control (blood pressure<120/70 mmHg) is associated with an increased risk of CHD among both African American and white patients with diabetes.

Adiposity and hyperglycaemia in pregnancy and related health outcomes in European ethnic minorities of Asian and African origin: a review

BACKGROUND

Ethnic minorities in Europe have high susceptibility to type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and, in some groups, also cardiovascular disease (CVD). Pregnancy can be considered a stress test that predicts future morbidity patterns in women and that affects future health of the child.

OBJECTIVE

TO REVIEW ETHNIC DIFFERENCES IN: 1) adiposity, hyperglycaemia, and pre-eclampsia during pregnancy; 2) future risk in the mother of obesity, T2DM and CVD; and 3) prenatal development and possible influences of maternal obesity, hyperglycaemia, and pre-eclampsia on offspring's future disease risk, as relevant for ethnic minorities in Europe of Asian and African origin.

DESIGN

Literature review.

RESULTS

Maternal health among ethnic minorities is still sparsely documented. Higher pre-pregnant body mass index (BMI) is found in women of African and Middle Eastern descent, and lower BMI in women from East and South Asia compared with women from the majority population. Within study populations, risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is considerably higher in many minority groups, particularly South Asians, than in the majority population. This increased risk is apparent at lower BMI and younger ages. Women of African origin have higher risk of pre-eclampsia. A GDM pregnancy implies approximately seven-fold higher risk of T2DM than normal pregnancies, and both GDM and pre-eclampsia increase later risk of CVD. Asian neonates have lower birth weights, and mostly also African neonates. This may translate into increased risks of later obesity, T2DM, and CVD. Foetal overgrowth can promote the same conditions. Breastfeeding represents a possible strategy to reduce risk of T2DM in both the mother and the child.

CONCLUSIONS

Ethnic minority women in Europe with Asian and African origin and their offspring seem to be at increased risk of T2DM and CVD, both currently and in the future. Pregnancy is an important window of opportunity for short and long-term disease prevention.

Racial disparities in diabetic complications in an underinsured population

CONTEXT

It is unclear whether there is a racial difference in the incidence of diabetic complications in underinsured populations.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to investigate racial disparities in the incidence of diabetic complications within the Louisiana State University (LSU) Hospital System.

DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS

This study (1997-2009) was conducted on a diabetic cohort enrolled in the LSU Hospital-Based Longitudinal Study. The cohort included 16,808 non-Hispanic white men, 21,983 non-Hispanic white women, 20,621 African-American men, and 33,753 African-American women who were 30-96 yr of age and had a mean value of family income of $9641/yr at baseline.

RESULTS

The study cohort had a mean follow-up of 4.4 years. The age- and sex-adjusted incidence rates and 95% confidence intervals of end-stage renal disease (ESRD), coronary heart disease (CHD), heart failure (HF), and stroke for white diabetic patients were 15.1 (14.3-15.8), 80.9 (78.9-82.9), 48.0 (46.6-49.4), and 21.4 (20.5-22.2) per 1000 person-years, respectively. Compared with white diabetic patients, African-American diabetic patients experienced higher incident rates of ESRD [17.3 (16.6-18.0)] and lower rates of CHD [47.5 (46.3-48.6)], HF [40.7 (39.6-41.8)], and stroke [19.1 (18.4-19.9)]. Female diabetic patients had lower rates of the four complications than male diabetic patients. Results of the Cox proportional hazard models confirmed sex and race disparity observed in the age-adjusted incidence rates.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite equal access to care, diabetic African-Americans have a higher risk of ESRD than their white counterparts, whereas diabetic whites have higher risks of CHD, HF, and stroke than their African-American counterparts.

Increasing prevalence of hypertension in low income residents within Louisiana State University Health Care Services Division Hospital System

BACKGROUND

Hypertension risk in local areas may vary from national estimates; however, the data on the prevalence of hypertension in some local areas are limited. We investigate the trend in the prevalence of hypertension in Louisiana from 2000 to 2009.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study among the subjects aged ≥ 20 years who received medical care from the Louisiana State University Health Care Services Division (LSUHCSD) hospital system during 2000-2009. Hypertensive cases were identified by using ICD-9 codes. The annual hypertension prevalence was calculated as the number of unique hypertensive individuals during the year divided by the number of unique individuals visiting the LSUHCSD hospital during the year.

RESULTS

The age-standardized prevalence of hypertension in LSUHCSD hospital patients aged ≥ 20 years increased by 49.4% during 2000-2009, from 24.1% in 2000 to 36.0% in 2009. The rise in age-standardized prevalence of hypertension from 2000 to 2009 occurred in both men (from 20.1% to 32.8%) and women (from 26.8 % to 38.3%), and in White (from 20.1% to 33.0%), African (from 27.4% to 37.6%) and other race Americans (from 14.9% to 22.3%). The age-standardized prevalence of hypertension was higher in women than in men, and higher in African Americans than in White and other race Americans.

CONCLUSION

The annual prevalence of hypertension has dramatically increased from 2000 to 2009 in both men and women and in all races of the population served by the LSUHCSD hospitals.

Body mass index and the risk of dementia among Louisiana low income diabetic patients

Background

The association between obesity and dementia risk remains debatable and no studies have assessed this association among diabetic patients. The aim of our study was to investigate the association between body mass index (BMI) and dementia risk among middle and low income diabetic patients.

Methodology/Principal Findings

The sample included 44,660 diabetic patients (19,618 white and 25,042 African American) 30 to 96 years of age without a history of dementia in the Louisiana State University Hospital-Based Longitudinal Study. During a mean follow-up period of 3.9 years, 388 subjects developed incident dementia. The age- and sex-adjusted hazards ratios (HRs) for incident dementia at different levels of BMI (≤25, 25–26.9, 27–29.9, 30–34.9, and ≥35 kg/m²) were 1.00, 0.53 (95% CI 0.34–0.83), 0.29 (0.18–0.45), 0.37 (0.25–0.56), and 0.31 (0.21–0.48) (P_trend<0.001) in white diabetic patients, and 1.00, 1.00 (95% CI 0.62–1.63), 0.62 (0.39–0.98), 0.56 (0.36–0.86), and 0.65 (0.43–1.01) (P_trend = 0.029) in African American diabetic patients. Further adjustment for other confounding factors affected the results only slightly. There was a significant interaction between race and BMI on dementia risk (χ² = 5.52, 1df, p<0.025), such that the association was stronger in white patients. In stratified analyses, the multivariate-adjusted inverse association between BMI and risk of dementia was present in subjects aged 55–64 years, 65–74 years, and ≥75 years, in men and women, in non-smokers and smokers, and in subjects with different types of health insurance.

Conclusions/Significance

Higher baseline BMI was associated with a lower risk of dementia among diabetic patients, and this association was stronger among white than among African American diabetic patients.