Maternal and clinical predictors of insulin requirement in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM): A cross-sectional study

TL;DR

This study identifies factors that predict the need for insulin in women with gestational diabetes, aiming to improve pregnancy outcomes.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into maternal and clinical predictors of insulin use in gestational diabetes mellitus.

Findings

Higher pre-pregnancy weight is significantly linked to insulin requirement in GDM.

Family history of diabetes and insulin resistance markers predict insulin use.

Co-morbid conditions are associated with increased insulin requirement in GDM patients.

Abstract

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) poses a significant challenge due to its variable insulin requirements and impact on pregnancy
outcomes. Therefore, it is of interest to identify maternal, clinical, and lifestyle factors associated with insulin use among 386 women
diagnosed with GDM. Detailed data on demographics, anthropometry, family history, comorbidities, diet, physical activity, and obstetric
outcomes were analyzed. Higher pre-pregnancy weight, family history of diabetes, insulin resistance markers, and co-morbid conditions
were significantly linked to insulin requirement. Early identification of high-risk women can enable timely interventions and improve
maternal and fetal outcomes.