DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

Endocrine Disorder

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

MODERATE

Diabetes diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy. Affects approximately 2-10% of pregnancies worldwide. Increases risk of complications for both mother and baby but usually resolves after delivery. Women with GDM have 50% lifetime risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Global Affected

21.0M

Countries

138

Symptoms

Usually asymptomatic

Increased thirst (in some cases)

Frequent urination

Fatigue

Blurred vision

Treatment Options

Hormone replacement

Hormone suppression

Medications

Surgery

Radiation therapy

Lifestyle modifications

Regular monitoring

Risk Factors

1Family history

2Autoimmune disease

3Age

4Obesity

5Genetic mutations

6Iodine deficiency/excess

7Medications

8Pituitary tumors

Diagnostic Methods

1Hormone level testing
2Imaging (CT, MRI, ultrasound)
3Stimulation/suppression tests
4Autoantibody testing
5Genetic testing

Prognosis

Generally excellent with proper hormone replacement or suppression. Lifelong monitoring typically required. Complications preventable with good control.

Prevention

Screening for at-risk individuals
Iodine sufficiency
Avoidance of trigger medications
Genetic counseling
Lifestyle modifications

Research Status

Medical nutrition therapy and lifestyle modification first-line. Blood glucose monitoring. Insulin therapy if glucose targets not met. Regular fetal monitoring. Postpartum lifestyle intervention reduces progression to type 2 diabetes by 35-50%.

Sources

https://www.endocrine.org
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK278949
https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.