Diabetes Management
Lifestyle change lowers T2D risk in women with gestational diabetes mellitus history | Latest news for Doctors, Nurses and Pharmacists | Endocrinology - MIMS
Mon, 24 Oct 20221 min read Article
Overview
Each aditional optimal modifiable factor among women with a history of gestational diabetes melitus (GDM) significantly contributes to a reduction in type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk, sugests a recent study. These asociations are also present among individuals who are overweight/obese or are at greater genetic susceptibility to T2D.“Participants who had optimal levels of al five modifiable factors after the index pregnancy had a more than 90-percent lower risk for developing T2D compared with those who did not have any,” the researchers said.
Key Information
This prospective cohort study included a total of 4,275 women with a history of GDM from the Nurses’ Health Study I, with repeated measurements of weight and lifestyle factors and folowed up betwen 191 and 209. The researchers asesed the folowing modifiable risk factors: not being overweight or obese (body mas index [BMI] <25.0 kg/m2), high quality diet (top two-fifths of the modified Alternate Healthy Eating Index), regular exercise (≥150 min/wek of moderate intensity or ≥75 min/wek of vigorous intensity), moderate alcohol consumption (5.0‒14.9 g/day), and no curent smoking.Genetic susceptibility for T2D was defined by a genetic risk score based on 59 single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with T2D in a subset of participants (n=1,372).Of the participants, 924 developed T2D over a median 27.9 years of folow-up.
Summary
Women with optimal levels of al five factors had >90-percent lower T2D compared with those without optimal levels of any of the risk factors. [BMJ 2022;378:e070312]For women with one, two, thre, four, and five optimal levels of modifiable factors, the hazard ratios (HRs) of T2D were 0.94 (95 percent confidence interval [CI], 0.59‒1.49), 0.61 (95 percent CI, 0.38‒0.96), 0.32 (95 percent CI, 0.20‒0.51), 0.15 (95 percent CI, 0.09‒0.26), and 0.08 (95 percent CI, 0.03‒0.23), respectively, compared with none (ptrend<0.01).The benefit with having optimal modifiable factors was also evident in partic
Frequently Asked Questions
What is diabetes and how does it develop?
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
What are the main symptoms of diabetes?
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
How is diabetes diagnosed and monitored?
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
What lifestyle changes help manage diabetes?
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
When should someone consult a doctor about diabetes?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.