Medizinische Universität Graz Austria/Österreich - Forschungsportal - Medical University of Graz
Gewählte Publikation:
Weiss, PAM; Walcher, W; Scholz, HS.
Neglected Gestational Diabetes - Risks and Consequences
GEBURTSH FRAUENHEILK 1999 59: 535-544.
Web of Science
- Co-Autor*innen der Med Uni Graz
- Scholz Heinz
- Walcher Wolfgang
- Altmetrics:
- Abstract:
- In German-speaking countries only about 10% of cases of gestational diabetes (GDM) are diagnosed because screening is not widely performed. Undiagnosed GDM leads to avoidable shortterm and long-term complications for the mother and the offspring. The mothers are at increased risk for hypertensive complications of pregnancy, urinary tract infections, premature delivery and caesarean delivery. The unrecognized predisposition to diabetes can be followed by early manifestation of diabetes and diabetic sequelae later in life. The fetus developes hyperinsulinism and is at risk for macrosomia and intrauterine death. Newborns are at risk for prematurity and for characteristic diabetogenic fetopathy with hyperinsulinism, delayed adaptation, hypoglycemia, hypocalcemia, and hyperbilirubinemia. Malconditioning of the fetal islet cell organ in utero predisposes the child and adolescent to obesity, impaired glucose tolerance, and diabetes rater in life. Screening for GDM should lead to the detection and treatment of one otherwise undiagnosed case per 100 pregnancies. An undiagnosed case of GDM leads to costs of 106 693,- Euro while screening 100 women would cost E 214,to E 3600,- at most. Thus, a general screening policy for GDM would provide medical and economic benefits.