Gestational Diabetes: 2021 Horta’s Hospital Casuistry - An Heldding Concern Data

Abstract

Introduction: Gestational diabetes (GD) is a frequent complication in pregnancy. There is evidence of an association between maternal hyperglycemia and the risk of obstetric and
neonatal complications. The concern with early diagnosis has
allowed, among others, to reduce these complications.

Horta Hospital has perceived with concern, a persistent
higher disease prevalence comparing to national data. The
goal of this study was to characterize the population with GD
followed and with delivery in the hospital in 2021.

Methods: Retrospective study of pregnant women with GD
followed in medical appointment and pregnant women with GD that delivered in this hospital. Data were collected from the hospital computer register and recorded in a database. Demographic and clinical characteristics of the pregnant women were analyzed, as well as the characteristics of the babies born from these pregnancies.

Results: Of all women who gave birth at hospital, 35% had
a diagnosis of GD. In this group, 58% were from 30 to 39 years
old. Pregnant women with GD that were followed in medical
appointment, had 35% BMI of obesity, 35% overweight, and the remaining 30% had normal weight. Family history of diabetes mellitus (DM) was present in 36% of pregnant women, and 35% had GD in a previous pregnancy.

Conclusion: The prevalence of GD in this institution remains
higher than data from mainland Portugal, showing the importance of increased attention to these pregnant women, in order to reduce the risk of complications. Although not enough data were collected to draw conclusions about possible causes for these results disparity, it is essential to do further investigation.