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Study finds gestational diabetes on the rise

The Monash University study shows Victoria and the Northern Territory had the sharpest increases in the country. Over six years, researchers observed a nearly 70% rise in cases nationwide.

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a type of diabetes that first appears during pregnancy. The condition can lead to complications such as:

  • high blood pressure during pregnancy
  • larger babies
  • greater chance of a caesarean section
  • Increased risk of mother and child developing type 2 diabetes later in life

The study suggests the rise in cases can partly be attributed to:

  • improved screening guidelines
  • population factors, such as higher rates of overweight and obesity
  • older maternal age
  • Increasing migration from regions with higher genetic susceptibility to GDM

Understanding the Risk Factors

GDM can affect any pregnant woman, including those without obvious risk factors. The study’s lead researcher, Associate Professor Jacqueline Boyle, says it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle before and during pregnancy to lower the risk.

Key recommendations to reduce the likelihood of developing GDM and promote wellbeing during pregnancy include:

  • Eat a balanced, nutritious diet
  • Stay active
  • Avoid smoking
  • Manage a healthy weight before conception

Cultural Considerations

One of the study's more significant findings was the difference in GDM rates based on the mother’s country of birth. Women born in Central and South-East Asia experienced a faster rise in cases compared to Australian-born women.

Australia’s multicultural population underlines the need for culturally tailored health interventions. There is a need for targeted diabetes prevention in these groups.

The Importance of Understanding

Addressing GDM requires more than medical solutions, it demands improved health literacy. Pregnant women and their families need clear, accessible information about GDM. They need to understand:

  • The importance of early screening and diagnosis
  • How to manage the condition with diet, exercise, and medical support
  • The long-term risks, such as the increased likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes post-pregnancy

Healthcare providers play a crucial role. It is important for them to use plain language, offer multilingual resources, and ensure that advice is actionable and culturally sensitive.

The steep rise in GDM in Victoria is a public health challenge that calls for action.

Diabetes Victoria manages a FREE program for those seeking lifestyle changes before and after pregnancy with the Life! program.

Families can get expert advice from the Diabetes Victoria Clinic to help them navigate challenges before, during, and after pregnancy.

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