Gestational diabetes linked to lower cognitive scores in mothers and higher developmental risks for children

A major new review of global research suggests that gestational diabetes during pregnancy may affect brain health in both mothers and their children. The findings were presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) Annual Meeting in Vienna.

Researchers analysed results from 48 observational studies covering more than 9 million pregnancies across 20 countries, making this the most comprehensive review of its kind. Gestational diabetes, which affects around 14% of pregnancies worldwide, is becoming increasingly common, particularly among older mothers, those living with obesity, people with a family history of diabetes, and non-white women.

The analysis found that mothers who experienced gestational diabetes scored slightly lower on tests of cognitive function during pregnancy compared with those who did not. More notably, children exposed to gestational diabetes in the womb showed lower average IQ scores, reduced verbal abilities, and a higher risk of developmental delays.

The study also found that these children were 36% more likely to develop ADHD and had a 56% higher risk of autism spectrum disorder. However, no clear differences were seen in overall brain structure or general intelligence scores.

Although the exact causes are not fully understood, researchers believe factors such as internal biological stress, reduced oxygen supply, and altered insulin levels during pregnancy may influence early brain development.

The authors stressed that early screening and careful management of gestational diabetes are crucial and said further long-term studies are needed to better understand the lasting effects on children as they grow.

Source: The Lancet