Risk of developing overt diabetes among pregnant women with gestational diabetes

Abstract

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)is one of the commonest metabolic disorders complicating pregnancy. It is associated with several adverse outcomes for both mother and baby. Numerous studies have reported an association between GDM and increased risk of overt diabetes mellitus.
Objectives: To estimate the incidence rate and define associated factors of overt diabetes in women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus.
Patients and methods: A retrospective cohort study was carried out at the Diabetic center, Hera general hospital in Makkah city, Saudi Arabia through reviewing of medical records of pregnant women with GDM who attended the center throughout the period of (April-June, 2022) and performed oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in the first 6 months after delivery.
Results: The study included 178 women with GDM. Their age ranged between 23 and 44 years. The incidence of overt diabetes among them was 27%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that with every increase in women`BMI by one kg/m2, the risk of overt diabetes increased by 12% (Adjusted odds ratio “AOR”=1.12; 95% confidence interval “CI”: 1.05-1.20, p=0.001). Compared to women with no previous attacks of GDM, those with two or three/more were at significant increased risk of GDM (AOR=3.74; 95% CI: 1.05-13.37, p=0.042 and AOR=7.31; 95% CI: 1.22-43.75, p=0.029), respectively. Women treated with insulin and diet were at almost four-folds risk of developing oveert diabetes compared to those treated with lifestyle modifications and diet (AOR=3.72; 95% CI: 1.63-8.50, p=0.002).
Conclusion: Gestational diabetes in many cases progressed to overt diabetes. Therefore, identifying those at higher risk for both GDM and overt diabetes is very important, to reduce risks of morbidity and mortality associated with these two health problems.