Year: 2020
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common metabolic disorders complicating pregnancy and is associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Early identification of women at risk may facilitate timely intervention. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), which reflects average blood glucose levels over the preceding 8–12 weeks, may serve as an early predictor of GDM when measured during the first trimester. Objectives To evaluate first trimester HbA1c levels in pregnant women. To assess the role of first trimester HbA1c in predicting the development of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus. To determine the correlation between first trimester HbA1c and maternal and fetal outcomes. Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted among 120 pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic before 14 weeks of gestation. First trimester HbA1c was measured at enrollment. All participants subsequently underwent a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at 24–28 weeks gestation for diagnosis of GDM. Maternal demographic data, obstetric history, and pregnancy outcomes were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0. Results: Among 120 pregnant women, 28 (23.3%) developed GDM. Mean first trimester HbA1c was significantly higher among women who subsequently developed GDM compared to those who remained normoglycemic (5.9 ± 0.4% vs. 5.2 ± 0.3%; p<0.001). An HbA1c cut-off value of 5.7% demonstrated a sensitivity of 82.1% and specificity of 78.3% for predicting GDM. Higher HbA1c levels were significantly associated with increased maternal BMI, family history of diabetes, and higher birth weight. Conclusion: First trimester HbA1c is a useful, simple, and cost-effective screening tool for identifying women at increased risk of developing GDM. Early detection may facilitate timely preventive interventions and improve pregnancy outcomes. Keywords: Gestational diabetes mellitus, HbA1c, Pregnancy
Author: Bhatt, Mona Rajiv
Language: English
Subfield: Obstetrics and Gynecology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7218050338