Characteristics of gestational diabetes subtypes classified by oral glucose tolerance test values

Identification and validation of gestational diabetes subgroups by data-driven cluster analysis

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a heterogeneous condition. Given such variability among patients, the ability to recognise distinct GDM subgroups using routine clinical variables may guide more personalised treatments. Our main aim was to identify distinct GDM subtypes through cluster analysis using routine clinical variables, and analyse treatment needs and pregnancy outcomes across these subgroups.

METHODS

In this cohort study, we analysed datasets from a total of 2682 women with GDM treated at two central European hospitals (1865 participants from Charité University Hospital in Berlin and 817 participants from the Medical University of Vienna), collected between 2015 and 2022. We evaluated various clustering models, including k-means, k-medoids and agglomerative hierarchical clustering. Internal validation techniques were used to guide best model selection, while external validation on independent test sets was used to assess model generalisability. Clinical outcomes such as specific treatment needs and maternal and fetal complications were analysed across the identified clusters.

RESULTS

Our optimal model identified three clusters from routinely available variables, i.e. maternal age, pre-pregnancy BMI (BMIPG) and glucose levels at fasting and 60 and 120 min after the diagnostic OGTT (OGTT0, OGTT60 and OGTT120, respectively). Cluster 1 was characterised by the highest OGTT values and obesity prevalence. Cluster 2 displayed intermediate BMIPG and elevated OGTT0, while cluster 3 consisted mainly of participants with normal BMIPG and high values for OGTT60 and OGTT120. Treatment modalities and clinical outcomes varied among clusters. In particular, cluster 1 participants showed a much higher need for glucose-lowering medications (39.6% of participants, compared with 12.9% and 10.0% in clusters 2 and 3, respectively, p<0.0001). Cluster 1 participants were also at higher risk of delivering large-for-gestational-age infants. Differences in the type of insulin-based treatment between cluster 2 and cluster 3 were observed in the external validation cohort.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Our findings confirm the heterogeneity of GDM. The identification of subgroups (clusters) has the potential to help clinicians define more tailored treatment approaches for improved maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Antenatal oral glucose tolerance test abnormalities in the prediction of future risk of postpartum diabetes in women with gestational diabetes: Results from the LIVING study

OBJECTIVES

To explore associations between type and number of abnormal glucose values on antenatal oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) with postpartum diabetes in South Asian women diagnosed with gestational diabetes (GDM) using International Association of the Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups criteria.

METHODS

This post-hoc evaluation of the Lifestyle Intervention IN Gestational Diabetes (LIVING) study, a randomized controlled trial, was conducted among women with GDM in the index pregnancy, across 19 centers in Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka. Postpartum diabetes (outcome) was defined on OGTT, using American Diabetes Association (ADA) criteria.

RESULTS

We report data on 1468 women with GDM, aged 30.9 (5.0) years, and with median (interquartile range) follow-up period of 1.8 (1.4-2.4) years after childbirth following the index pregnancy. We found diabetes in 213 (14.5%) women with an incidence of 8.7 (7.6-10.0)/100 women-years. The lowest incidence rate was 3.8/100 women years, in those with an isolated fasting plasma glucose (FPG) abnormality, and highest was 19.0/100 women years in participants with three abnormal values. The adjusted hazard ratios for two and three abnormal values compared to one abnormal value were 1.73 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.18-2.54; p = .005) and 3.56 (95% CI, 2.46-5.16; p < .001) respectively. The adjusted hazard ratio for the combined (combination of fasting and postglucose load) abnormalities was 2.61 (95% CI, 1.70-4.00; p < .001), compared to isolated abnormal FPG.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk of diabetes varied significantly depending upon the type and number of abnormal values on antenatal OGTT. These data may inform future precision medicine approaches such as risk prediction models in identifying women at higher risk and may guide future targeted interventions.

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Subtypes Classified by Oral Glucose Tolerance Test and Maternal and Perinatal Outcomes: Results of a Mexican Multicenter Prospective Cohort Study "Cuido Mi Embarazo"

Purpose

This study explores the impact of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) subtypes classified by oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) values on maternal and perinatal outcomes.

Patients and Methods

This multicenter prospective cohort study (May 2019-December 2022) included participants from the Mexican multicenter cohort study Cuido mi Embarazo (CME). Women were classified into four groups per 75-g 2-h OGTT: 1) normal glucose tolerance (normal OGTT), 2) GDM-Sensitivity (isolated abnormal fasting or abnormal fasting in combination with 1-h or 2-h abnormal results), 3) GDM-Secretion (isolated abnormal values at 1-h or 2-h or their combination), and 4) GDM-Mixed (three abnormal values). Cesarean delivery, neonates large for gestational age (LGA), and pre-term birth rates were among the outcomes compared. Between-group comparisons were analyzed using either the t-test, chi-square test, or Fisher's exact test.

Results

Of 2,056 Mexican pregnant women in the CME cohort, 294 (14.3%) had GDM; 53.7%, 34.4%, and 11.9% were classified as GDM-Sensitivity, GDM-Secretion, and GDM-Mixed subtypes, respectively. Women with GDM were older (p = 0.0001) and more often multiparous (p = 0.119) vs without GDM. Cesarean delivery (63.3%; p = 0.02) and neonate LGA (10.7%; p = 0.078) were higher in the GDM-Mixed group than the overall GDM group (55.6% and 8.4%, respectively). Pre-term birth was more common in the GDM-Sensitivity group than in the overall GDM group (10.2% vs 8.5%, respectively; p=0.022). At 6 months postpartum, prediabetes was more frequent in the GDM-Sensitivity group than in the overall GDM group (31.6% vs 25.5%). Type 2 diabetes was more common in the GDM-Mixed group than in the overall GDM group (10.0% vs 3.3%).

Conclusion

GDM subtypes effectively stratified maternal and perinatal risks. GDM-Mixed subtype increased the risk of cesarean delivery, LGA, and type 2 diabetes postpartum. GDM subtypes may help personalize clinical interventions and optimize maternal and perinatal outcomes.

Maternal fasting serum C-peptide concentrations in the first and second trimesters and subsequent risk of gestational diabetes mellitus: A nested case-control study among Chinese women

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association of serum connecting peptide (C-peptide) concentrations with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) risk among Chinese women.

METHODS

A nested case-control study was conducted on 436 reproductive-aged women, involving 218 GDM cases and 218 controls matched at 1:1 by maternal age, in Beijing, China between January 2016 and December 2017. Fasting serum C-peptide were successively determined at 10-14 and 15-20 weeks of gestation. Restricted cubic spline and logistic regression analyses were utilized, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated to evaluate the predictive capacity of C-peptide for GDM.

RESULTS

Fasting serum C-peptide concentrations exhibited a significant decrease from the initial to the subsequent trimester in females with normal glucose tolerance (NGT). For each 1 log ng/mL increase of fasting serum C-peptide during the first and second trimesters, GDM risk increased by 2.38-fold [odds ratio (OR): 2.38, 95% confidence intervals (95%CI): 1.33-4.40] and 3.07-fold (OR: 3.07, 95%CI: 1.49-6.62), respectively. The areas under the ROC curves for the first- and second-trimester C-peptide were 80.4% and 82.4%.

CONCLUSION

Our findings revealed a positive correlation between fasting serum C-peptide during the first and second trimesters and the risk of GDM or its subtypes, underscoring the potential of C-peptide as a predictor for GDM development.

Maternal overweight and obesity and its association with metabolic changes and fetal overgrowth in the absence of gestational diabetes mellitus: A prospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Previous studies indicated an association between fetal overgrowth and maternal obesity independent of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). However, the underlying mechanisms beyond this possible association are not completely understood. This study investigates metabolic changes and their association with fetal and neonatal biometry in overweight and obese mothers who remained normal glucose-tolerant during gestation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this prospective cohort study 893 women who did not develop GDM were categorized according to their pregestational body mass index (BMI): 570 were normal weight, 220 overweight and 103 obese. Study participants received a broad metabolic evaluation before 16 weeks and were followed up until delivery to assess glucose levels during the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at mid-gestation as well as fetal biometry in ultrasound and pregnancy outcome data.

RESULTS

Increased maternal BMI was associated with an adverse metabolic profile at the beginning of pregnancy, including a lower degree of insulin sensitivity (as assessed by the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index) in overweight (mean difference: -2.4, 95% CI -2.9 to -1.9, p < 0.001) and obese (mean difference: -4.3, 95% CI -5.0 to -3.7, p < 0.001) vs normal weight women. Despite not fulfilling diagnosis criteria for GDM, overweight and obese mothers showed higher glucose levels at fasting and during the OGTT. Finally, we observed increased measures of fetal subcutaneous tissue thickness in ultrasound as well as higher proportions of large-for-gestational-age infants in overweight (18.9%, odds ratio [OR] 1.74, 95% CI 1.08-2.78, p = 0.021) and obese mothers (21.0%, OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.06-3.59, p = 0.027) vs normal weight controls (11.8%). The risk for large for gestational age was further determined by OGTT glucose (60 min: OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.02-1.21, p = 0.013; 120 min: OR 1.13, 95% CI 1.02-1.27, P = 0.025, for the increase of 10 mg/dL) and maternal triglyceride concentrations (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.01-1.22, p = 0.036, for the increase of 20 mg/dL).

CONCLUSIONS

Mothers affected by overweight or obesity but not GDM had a higher risk for fetal overgrowth. An impaired metabolic milieu related to increased maternal BMI as well as higher glucose levels at mid-gestation may impact fetal overgrowth in women still in the range of normal glucose tolerance.

Gestational diabetes: One size does not fit all-an observational study of maternal and neonatal outcomes by maternal glucose profile

OBJECTIVES

To examine obstetrical and neonatal outcomes across maternal glucose profiles at the population level and to explore insulin sensitivity and beta-cell function across profiles in an independent, well-phenotyped cohort for potential pathophysiologic explanation.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Observational cohort study of all pregnancies with gestational diabetes screening between October 2008 and December 2018 resulting in live singleton birth in Alberta, Canada (n = 436,773) were categorized into seven maternal glucose profiles: (1) normal 50 g-glucose challenge test (nGCT), (2) normal 75-g OGTT (nOGTT), (3) isolated elevated 1 h post-load glucose (ePLPG1), (4) isolated elevated 2 h post-load glucose (ePLPG2), (5) elevated 1 and 2 h post-load glucose (ePLPG12), (6) isolated elevated FPG (eFPG), and (7) elevated FPG + elevated 1-h and/or 2-h PLG (Combined). Primary outcomes were large for gestational age (LGA) and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission rates. An independent observational cohort of 1451 women was examined for measures of beta-cell function (ISSI-2, insulinogenic index/HOMA-IR) and insulin sensitivity/resistance (Matsuda index, HOMA-IR) by similar maternal glucose profiles.

RESULTS

Pregnancies with elevated FPG, either isolated or combined, had higher adverse events and lower insulin sensitivity. The combination of elevated FPG + elevated 1-h and/or 2-h PLG had the highest rates of LGA(20.9%), NICU admissions (14.7%), and lowest insulin sensitivity as measured by Matsuda index and HOMA-IR, and beta-cell function as measured by ISSI-2 and Insulinogenic index/HOMA-IR.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated fasting plasma glucose, either alone or combined with post-load glucose elevation is associated with worse outcomes than isolated post-load glucose elevation, possibly due to higher degrees of insulin resistance. Future work is needed to better understand these differences, and explore whether tailored treatment of GDM can improve neonatal outcomes.

The Influence of Airborne Particulate Matter on the Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Large Retrospective Study in Chongqing, China

Emerging research findings suggest that airborne particulate matter might be a risk factor for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). However, the concentration-response relationships and the susceptible time windows for different types of particulate matter may vary. In this retrospective analysis, we employ a novel robust approach to assess the crucial time windows regarding the prevalence of GDM and to distinguish the susceptibility of three GDM subtypes to air pollution exposure. This study included 16,303 pregnant women who received routine antenatal care in 2018-2021 at the Maternal and Child Health Hospital in Chongqing, China. In total, 2482 women (15.2%) were diagnosed with GDM. We assessed the individual daily average exposure to air pollution, including PM2.5, PM10, O3, NO2, SO2, and CO based on the volunteers' addresses. We used high-accuracy gridded air pollution data generated by machine learning models to assess particulate matter per maternal exposure levels. We further analyzed the association of pre-pregnancy, early, and mid-pregnancy exposure to environmental pollutants using a generalized additive model (GAM) and distributed lag nonlinear models (DLNMs) to analyze the association between exposure at specific gestational weeks and the risk of GDM. We observed that, during the first trimester, per IQR increases for PM10 and PM2.5 exposure were associated with increased GDM risk (PM10: OR = 1.19, 95%CI: 1.07~1.33; PM2.5: OR = 1.32, 95%CI: 1.15~1.50) and isolated post-load hyperglycemia (GDM-IPH) risk (PM10: OR = 1.23, 95%CI: 1.09~1.39; PM2.5: OR = 1.38, 95%CI: 1.18~1.61). Second-trimester O3 exposure was positively correlated with the associated risk of GDM, while pre-pregnancy and first-trimester exposure was negatively associated with the risk of GDM-IPH. Exposure to SO2 in the second trimester was negatively associated with the risk of GDM-IPH. However, there were no observed associations between NO2 and CO exposure and the risk of GDM and its subgroups. Our results suggest that maternal exposure to particulate matter during early pregnancy and exposure to O3 in the second trimester might increase the risk of GDM, and GDM-IPH is the susceptible GDM subtype to airborne particulate matter exposure.

Advanced maternal age (AMA) and 75 g oGTT glucose levels are pedictors for insulin therapy in women with gestational diabetes (GDM)

OBJECTIVES

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a common complication during pregnancy that is strongly associated with adverse fetal and maternal outcomes. Advanced maternal age (≥35 years) is a known risk factor for GDM. Studies advocate that GDM comprises distinctive metabolic entities, suggesting an individualized approach based on early pregnancy characteristics (such as 75 g oGTT values, maternal age, obstetric history).

METHODS

The oGTT blood glucose levels of 1,664 women were categorized into isolated fasting hyperglycemia (GDM-IFH), isolated postprandial hyperglycemia (GDM-IPH) and combined hyperglycemia (GDM-CH), using the levels of the fasting, 1 h and 2 h values after glucose application. These three subtypes were analysed regarding baseline characteristics as well as fetal and maternal outcome in the context of maternal age.

RESULTS

This analysis reveals that the 75 g oGTT levels and maternal age can distinguish metabolic phenotypes in women with GDM. The overall rate of insulin therapy required was higher in women from the GDM-CH group and increased with maternal age (31.7 %, 38.2 %, <35 years, ≥35-39 years respectively, vs. total insulin rate 22.3 %, p-value <0.001). Women ≥35 years displayed a significantly higher caesarean delivery (CD) rate (<35 years 34.6 %, 38.4 %, 41.1 % vs. ≥35 years 54.8 %, 47.6 %, 46.5 %, GDM-IFH, GDM-IPH, GDM-CH respectively, p-value <0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Women with fasting hyperglycemia, especially those with combined hyperglycemia and advanced maternal age (AMA) display a higher risk for unfavorable perinatal outcome. A categorization based on oGTT values and maternal age, as well as other characteristics can facilitate a basis for clinical risk stratification. Women at risk should receive an individualized and intensified perinatal care as well as interventional therapies.

The CHANGED Score-A New Tool for the Prediction of Insulin Dependency in Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a frequent complication during pregnancy. We aimed to develop a score to predict future insulin dependency in gestational diabetes (GDM). Data from 1611 patients from Charité Berlins gestational diabetes clinic from 2015 to 2022 were utilized. A stepwise backwards regression, including patient characteristics obtained at the initial presentation, was performed. Predictors examined included age, fasting blood glucose level, blood glucose levels one and two hours after oral glucose tolerance test, pre-pregnancy BMI, number of previous pregnancies and births, and fetal sex. The ideal cutoff value between high and low risk for insulin dependency was assessed and the score was internally validated. There were 1249 (77.5%) women diagnosed with dietary GDM and 362 (22.5%) were diagnosed with insulin-dependent GDM. The CHarité AssessmeNt of GEstational Diabetes (CHANGED) Score achieved an area under the curve of 0.77 (95% confidence interval 0.75-0.80; 0.75 in internal validation). The optimal cutoff value was calculated at a score value of 9 (72% sensitivity, 69% specificity). We developed an easily applicable tool to accurately predict insulin dependency in gestational diabetes. The CHANGED Score is routinely available and can potentially improve maternal and fetal outcomes.

Association Between Maternal Glucose Levels in Gestational Diabetes Screening and Subsequent Hypertension

BACKGROUND

We assessed the association between maternal glucose levels in pregnancy and subsequent hypertension.

METHODS

This population-level, retrospective cohort study examined women aged 12 to 54 years with singleton pregnancies completed at ≥29 weeks of gestation from October 1, 2008 to December 1, 2018 followed until March 31, 2019 in Alberta, Canada. Women were stratified by results in the 50-gram glucose challenge test and by 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test subtypes (normal oral glucose tolerance test, elevated fasting plasma glucose only [elevated fasting], elevated postload glucose only, or both elevated fasting and postload glucose [combined]. Time to development of hypertension was modeled using Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

Of 313 361 women, 231 008 (79.1%) underwent a glucose challenge test only while 60 909 (20.9%) underwent either an oral glucose tolerance test only or both. Nine thousand five hundred eighty (3.1%) developed hypertension, and 2824 (0.9%) developed cardiovascular disease over a median follow-up of 5.7 years. Every 1-mmol/L increase in glucose in the glucose challenge test increased the risk of subsequent hypertension by 15% (adjusted hazard ratio and 95% CI, 1.15 [1.14-1.16]). Among those who underwent the oral glucose tolerance test, the combined group conferred the highest risk of subsequent hypertension, followed by elevated fasting, then elevated postload glucose only (reference: glucose challenge test ≤7.1 mmol/L, adjusted hazard ratio [95% CI]: elevated postload glucose only, 1.83 [1.68-2.00]; elevated fasting 2.02 [1.70-2.40]; combined, 2.65 [2.33-3.01]). No significant associations between maternal glucose levels and cardiovascular disease were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Increasing maternal glucose levels in pregnancy were associated with increasing risk of subsequent hypertension. These findings may help identify higher-risk women who should be targeted for earlier postpartum cardiovascular risk reduction.

Glucose Levels of the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (oGTT) Can Predict Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes in Women with Gestational Diabetes (GDM)

OBJECTIVES AND BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a common pregnancy complication defined as a glucose intolerance diagnosis during pregnancy. GDM is strongly associated with adverse fetal and maternal outcomes. In Germany, to screen and diagnose GDM we use a 1 h 50 g oGCT (oral glucose challenge test) followed by a 2 h 75 g oGTT if the first was pathological. This analysis examines the correlation of 75 g oGTT glucose levels and fetomaternal outcome.

METHODS

Data from 1664 patients from a gestational diabetes consultation clinic at the Charité University Hospital in Berlin, Germany, were analyzed retrospectively from 2015 to 2022. The 75 g oGTT blood glucose levels were categorized into isolated fasting hyperglycemia (GDM-IFH), isolated post-load hyperglycemia (GDM-IPH) and combined hyperglycemia (GDM-CH), using the levels of the fasting, 1 h and 2 h values, after glucose application. These subtypes were compared based on their baseline characteristics as well as fetal and maternal outcome.

RESULTS

GDM-IFH and GDM-CH women displayed higher pre-conceptional BMI and required insulin therapy more frequently (p < 0.001). The GDM-IFH group was at higher risk of having a primary cesarean section (p = 0.047), while GDM-IPH women were significantly more likely to have an emergent cesarean section (p = 0.013). The offspring of GDM-IFH and GDM-CH women were born with a significantly higher mean birthweight (p < 0.001) and birth weight percentiles (p < 0.001) and were at increased risk of being large for gestational age (LGA) (p = 0.004). Women from the GDM-IPH group delivered significantly more neonates who were small for gestational age (p = 0.027) or with low fetal weight <30th percentile (p = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

This analysis shows a strong association between the glucose response pattern in the 75 g oGTT and adverse perinatal fetomaternal outcome. The differences among the subgroups, specifically concerning insulin therapy, mode of delivery and fetal growth, suggest an individualized approach to prenatal care after a GDM diagnosis.

Evaluating the effect of gestational diabetes mellitus on macrosomia based on the characteristics of oral glucose tolerance test

BACKGROUND

GDM is always treated as a homogenous disease ignoring the different metabolic characteristics in oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). We assessed the effect of GDM on macrosomia based on the different characteristics of OGTT.

METHODS

We retrospectively divided 998 GDM pregnant women into 7 groups, Group A1: abnormal OGTT_0h; Group A2: abnormal OGTT_{1 h}; Group A3: abnormal OGTT_{2 h}; Group B1: abnormal OGTT_{0h+1 h}; Group B2: abnormal OGTT_{0h+2 h}; Group B3: abnormal OGTT_{1 h+2 h}; Group C: abnormal OGTT_{0h+1 h+2 h}; RESULTS: The incidence of macrosomia in group C (21.92%) was higher than other groups. The OR of OGTT_{0h+1 h+2 h} was significant (OGTT_{1 h}: OR=1.577, 95% CI: 0.791, 3.145; OGTT_{2 h}: OR=1.151, 95% CI: 0.572, 2.313; OGTT_{0h+1 h}: OR=1.346, 95% CI: 0.584, 3.101; OGTT_{0h+2 h}: OR=1.327, 95% CI: 0.517, 3.409; OGTT_{1 h+2 h}: OR=0.771, 95% CI: 0.256, 2.322; OGTT_{0h+1 h+2 h}: OR=4.164, 95% CI: 2.095, 8.278) when comparing with OGTT_0h. Subgroup analysis showed abnormal OGTT_{0h+1 h+2 h} might contribute more to macrosomia in pre-pregnancy BMI ≥ 24 kg/m² than those with BMI < 24 kg/m².

CONCLUSION

The effect of abnormal OGTT_{0h+1 h+2 h} on macrosomia was significantly greater than other OGTT characteristics, especially for those with pre-pregnancy BMI ≥ 24 kg/m². Individualized management of GDM based on OGTT characteristics and pre-pregnancy BMI might be needed.

Mouse Models of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Its Subtypes: Recent Insights and Pitfalls

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is currently the most common complication of pregnancy and is defined as a glucose intolerance disorder with recognition during pregnancy. GDM is considered a uniform group of patients in conventional guidelines. In recent years, evidence of the disease's heterogeneity has led to a growing understanding of the value of dividing patients into different subpopulations. Furthermore, in view of the increasing incidence of hyperglycemia outside pregnancy, it is likely that many cases diagnosed as GDM are in fact patients with undiagnosed pre-pregnancy impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Experimental models contribute significantly to the understanding of the pathogenesis of GDM and numerous animal models have been described in the literature. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the existing mouse models of GDM, in particular those that have been obtained by genetic manipulation. However, these commonly used models have certain limitations in the study of the pathogenesis of GDM and cannot fully describe the heterogeneous spectrum of this polygenic disease. The polygenic New Zealand obese (NZO) mouse is introduced as a recently emerged model of a subpopulation of GDM. Although this strain lacks conventional GDM, it exhibits prediabetes and an IGT both preconceptionally and during gestation. In addition, it should be emphasized that the choice of an appropriate control strain is of great importance in metabolic studies. The commonly used control strain C57BL/6N, which exhibits IGT during gestation, is discussed in this review as a potential model of GDM.

Prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus in women with a family history of type 2 diabetes in first- and second-degree relatives

AIMS

A family history of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) markedly increases an individual's lifetime risk of developing the disease. For gestational diabetes (GDM), this risk factor is less well characterized. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between family history of T2DM in first- and second-degree relatives in women with GDM and the differences in metabolic characteristics at early gestation.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study included 1129 pregnant women. A broad risk evaluation was performed before 16 + 0 weeks of gestation, including a detailed family history of the different types of diabetes and a laboratory examination of glucometabolic parameters. Participants were followed up until delivery and GDM assessed according to the latest diagnosis criteria.

RESULTS

We showed that pregnant women with first- (FHD1, 26.6%, OR 1.91, 95%CI 1.16 to 3.16, p = 0.005), second- (FHD2, 26.3%, OR 1.88, 95%CI 1.16 to 3.05, p = 0.005) or both first- and second-degree relatives with T2DM (FHD1 + D2, 33.3%, OR 2.64, 95%CI 1.41 to 4.94, p < 0.001) had a markedly increased risk of GDM compared to those with negative family history (FHN) (n = 100, 15.9%). The association was strongest if both parents were affected (OR 4.69, 95%CI 1.33 to 16.55, p = 0.009). Women with FHD1 and FHD1 + D2 had adverse glucometabolic profiles already in early pregnancy.

CONCLUSIONS

Family history of T2DM is an important risk factor for GDM, also by applying the current diagnostic criteria. Furthermore, we showed that the degree of kinship plays an essential role in quantifying the risk already at early pregnancy.

Hematological Parameters in the First Trimester and the Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus — Beijing, China, 2017–2020

What is already known about this topic?

Hematological parameters may indicate the presence of chronic low-grade inflammation and increasing viscosity, which are involved in the pathological processes of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). However, the association between several hematological parameters in early pregnancy and GDM has yet to be elucidated.

What is added by this report?

Hematological parameters in the first trimester, particularly red blood cell (RBC) count and systematic immune index, have a significant impact on GDM incidence. The neutrophils (NEU) count in the first trimester was particularly pronounced for GDM. The upward trend of RBC, white blood cell (WBC), and NEU counts was consistent across all GDM subtypes.

What are the implications for public health practice?

Early pregnancy hematological parameters are associated with the risk of GDM.

Metabolic Characteristics of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and the Effects on Pregnancy Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To describe the metabolic characteristics of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and assess their effects on perinatal outcomes.

METHODS

A two-center nested case‒control study was designed, including 192 pregnant women with GDM and 191 pregnant women with normal glucose tolerance (NGT). Serum glucose and insulin concentrations based upon the 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) were measured. Several indices were calculated to describe the metabolic characteristics of the subjects. The relationship between glucose metabolism parameters and pregnancy outcomes was evaluated using stepwise linear regression and binary logistic regression.

RESULTS

Compared with the NGT group, the GDM group showed significantly higher fasting and postprandial glucose parameters but significantly lower fasting and postprandial insulin responses. Meanwhile, the GDM group had significantly lower HOMA-β, DI and ISI_Matsuda but comparable HOMA-IR. The IFG subgroup showed significantly lower FINS/FPG only, while the IGT and IFSG subgroups showed deficiency in both fasting and postprandial insulin response. The IFSG subgroup had the highest glucose parameters and the lowest insulin parameters, as well as significantly lower ISI_Matsuda and HOMA-β than the NGT group. FPG had a significant effect on infants' birth weight, and 1hPG and FINS/FPG had a significant effect on delivery gestational age. AUC-INS, IGI₆₀ and DI were related to premature delivery risk after adjusting for confounders. The IFG subgroup of GDM was 2.319 times more likely to be subject to cesarean section than the NGT group. FPG, FINS/FPG, AUC-GLU, AUC-INS/AUC-GLU and HOMA-β were related to macrosomia risk.

CONCLUSION

Beta cell dysfunction rather than insulin resistance determines the occurrence of GDM in the central Chinese population. Women with predominant insulin secretion defects had a similar risk of adverse perinatal outcomes to women with NGT. Our study provided a basis for the selection of glucose metabolism monitoring indicators useful for the prevention of adverse perinatal outcomes.

New Developments, Challenges and Open Questions in Diagnosis and Treatment of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

The prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is increasing alongside a rising maternal age at conception, an increasing number of people making unhealthy lifestyle choices and, especially, an increasing pregestational body weight [...].

Evolution of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus across Continents in 21st Century

Over the last few decades, several definitions of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) have been described. There is currently not enough research to show which way is the best to diagnose GDM. Opinions differ in terms of the optimal screening and diagnostic measures, in part due to the differences in the population risks, the cost-effectiveness considerations, and the lack of an evidence base to support large national screening programs. The basic method for identifying the disease is the measurement of glucose plasma levels which may be determined when fasting, two hours after a meal, or simply at any random time. The currently increasing incidence of diabetes in the whole population, the altering demographics and the presence of lifestyle changes still require better methods of screening for hyperglycemia, especially during pregnancy. The main aim of this review is to focus on the prevalence and modifications to the screening criteria for GDM across all continents in the 21st century. We would like to show the differences in the above issues and correlate them with the geographical situation. Looking at the history of diabetes, we are sure that more than one evolution in GDM diagnosis will occur, due to the development of medicine, appearance of modern technologies, and the dynamic continuation of research.

Maternal exposure to traffic-related ambient particles and risk of gestational diabetes mellitus with isolated fasting hyperglycaemia: A retrospective cohort study in Beijing, China

BACKGROUND

Ambient particles have been associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), however, no study has evaluated the effects of traffic-related ambient particles on the risks of GDM subgroups classified by oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) values.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted among 24,001 pregnant women who underwent regular prenatal care and received OGTT at Haidian Maternal and Child Health Hospital in Beijing, China, 2014-2017. A total of 3,168 (13.2%) pregnant women were diagnosed with GDM, including 1,206 with isolated fasting hyperglycaemia (GDM-IFH). At a fixed-location monitoring station, routinely monitored ambient particles included fine particulate matter (PM_2.5), black carbon (BC) and particles in size ranges of 5-560 nm (PNC_5-560). Contributions of PNC_5-560 sources were apportioned by positive matrix factorization model. Logistic regression model was applied to estimate odds ratio (OR) of ambient particles on GDM risk.

RESULTS

Among the 24,001 pregnancy women recruited in this study, 3,168 (13.2%) were diagnosed with GDM, including 1,206 with isolated fasting hyperglycaemia (GDM-IFH) and 1,295 with isolated post-load hyperglycaemia (GDM-IPH). We observed increased GDM-IFH risk with per interquartile range increase in first-trimester exposures to PM_2.5 (OR = 1.94; 95% Confidence Intervals: 1.23-3.07), BC (OR = 2.14; 1.73-2.66) and PNC_5-560 (OR = 2.46; 1.90-3.19). PNC_5-560 originated from diesel and gasoline vehicle emissions were found in associations with increases in GDM-IFH risk, but not in GDM-IPH risk.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that exposure to traffic-related ambient particles may increase GDM risk by exerting adverse effects on fasting glucose levels during pregnancy, and support continuing efforts to reduce traffic emissions for protecting vulnerable population who are at greater risk of glucose metabolism disorder.

Pregnancy Outcomes: Effects of Metformin (POEM) study: a protocol for a long-term, multicentre, open-label, randomised controlled trial in gestational diabetes mellitus

INTRODUCTION

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common disorder of pregnancy with health risks for mother and child during pregnancy, delivery and further lifetime, possibly leading to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Current treatment is focused on reducing hyperglycaemia, by dietary and lifestyle intervention and, if glycaemic targets are not reached, insulin. Metformin is an oral blood glucose lowering drug and considered safe during pregnancy. It improves insulin sensitivity and has shown advantages, specifically regarding pregnancy-related outcomes and patient satisfaction, compared with insulin therapy. However, the role of metformin in addition to usual care is inconclusive and long-term outcome of metformin exposure in utero are lacking. The primary aim of this study is to investigate the early addition of metformin on pregnancy and long-term outcomes in GDM.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The Pregnancy Outcomes: Effects of Metformin study is a multicentre, open-label, randomised, controlled trial. Participants include women with GDM, between 16 and 32 weeks of gestation, who are randomised to either usual care or metformin added to usual care, with insulin rescue in both groups. Metformin is given up to 1 year after delivery. The study consists of three phases (A-C): A-until 6 weeks after delivery; B-until 1 year after delivery; C-observational study until 20 years after delivery. During phase A, the primary outcome is a composite score consisting of: (1) pregnancy-related hypertension, (2) large for gestational age neonate, (3) preterm delivery, (4) instrumental delivery, (5) caesarean delivery, (6) birth trauma, (7) neonatal hypoglycaemia, (8) neonatal intensive care admission. During phase B and C the primary outcome is the incidence of T2DM and (weight) development in mother and child.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study was approved by the Central Committee on Research Involving Human Subjects in the Netherlands. Results will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02947503.

The German Gestational Diabetes Study (PREG), a prospective multicentre cohort study: rationale, methodology and design

INTRODUCTION

Even well-treated gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) might still have impact on long-term health of the mother and her offspring, although this relationship has not yet been conclusively studied. Using in-depth phenotyping of the mother and her offspring, we aim to elucidate the relationship of maternal hyperglycaemia during pregnancy and adequate treatment, and its impact on the long-term health of both mother and child.

METHODS

The multicentre PREG study, a prospective cohort study, is designed to metabolically and phenotypically characterise women with a 75-g five-point oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) during, and repeatedly after pregnancy. Outcome measures are maternal glycaemia during OGTTs, birth outcome and the health and growth development of the offspring. The children of the study participants are followed up until adulthood with developmental tests and metabolic and epigenetic phenotyping in the PREG Offspring study. A total of 800 women (600 with GDM, 200 controls) will be recruited.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study protocol has been approved by all local ethics committees. Results will be disseminated via conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

The PREG study and the PREG Offspring study are registered with Clinical Trials (ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers: NCT04270578, NCT04722900).

Commentary: Implications of SARS-Cov-2 infection for pregnancy with diabetes: achievements and open questions for feto-maternal medicine

SARS-Cov-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Coronavirus 2) infection confers a non-negligible risk for younger pregnant women with diabetes, which is still less well investigated. This topic was recently addressed by a systematic scoping review in BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, aiming to summarize the complex interaction between SARS-Cov-2 infection, pregnancy and diabetes. This commentary will summarize and discuss the main findings of this article and its implications for future research.