Regardless of whether or not the mother has diabetes, if her blood sugar levels are high, the risk for her newborn’s health may also be higher, according to a study involving over 23,000 pregnant women in nine countries. The results of the study may lead to more monitoring during pregnancy, as well as more focused dietary advice.
The findings of his research were presented at he American Diabetes Association, 67th Scientific Sessions, Chicago, Illinois.
According to the study, there is a strong link between higher maternal blood sugar levels and..
— babies born bigger than normal (larger than 90% of babies born locally)
— the need for C-sections for first borns
— lower blood-sugar levels and higher insulin levels in newborns (raising the risk of hypertension, diabetes and obesity later on)
The $19 million study was carried out in the following countries:
— Australia
— Barbados
— Britain
— Canada
— Hong Kong
— Israel
— Singapore
— Thailand
— United States
In the North America and Europe about one in every twenty pregnant women develops gestational diabetes.
American Diabetes Association, 67th Scientific Sessions, Chicago, Illinois
Written by: Christian Nordqvist
Editor: Medical News Today