October 22, 2018
Queensland Health is alarmed that “gestational diabetes”, ie. affecting pregnant women, has become the fastest growing type of diabetes diagnosed in the State.
Twelve per cent of all pregnant Queensland women are now affected by gestational diabetes, up from 7.6 per cent in 2013.
Health authorities are urging mums-to-be to reduce their risk by adopting healthy habits such as a well-balanced diet and regular physical activity.
Deputy Director-General Dr John Wakefield said if not managed correctly, gestational diabetes could have serious implications for both mothers and their babies.
“High blood glucose levels can cause a range of problems, including difficult births, babies growing too big or being born too early and developing diabetes and other health issues later on,” Dr Wakefield said.
Women with a Body Mass Index of greater than 30 have an increased risk of gestational diabetes, as do mums who are 40 years or older during pregnancy.
However, Dr Wakefield said a whole range of genetic, ethnic and lifestyle factors could come into play.
“As people can’t change their ethnicity or their genetics, the important thing is to focus on a healthy life,” Dr Wakefield said.
“There are some simple steps that women can take to reduce their risk.
“These include maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy by monitoring weight gain, participating in regular physical activity, and eating a well-balanced diet which meets the nutritional requirements for pregnancy.”
