Saha S. Self-monitoring of blood glucose in gestational diabetes mellitus patients during the COVID-19 pandemic in low- and middle-income countries.
World J Obstet Gynecol 2022;
11:17-19. [DOI:
10.5317/wjog.v11.i2.17]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is critical for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) care. However, there are several hurdles to its practice during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in GDM patients in low- and middle-income countries when GDM care recommendations emphasize telemedicine-based care. Based on available knowledge, this letter proposes the following barriers to SMBG in these GDM patients during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic: Poor internet connectivity, affordability of SMBG and digital applications to connect with healthcare providers, government-imposed social mobility restriction, psychological stress, and mental health conditions. Nevertheless, definitive evidence will only be acquired from rigorous research.
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