WHO Issues First Global Guidelines for Gestational Diabetes Care
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first-ever guidelines specifically addressing the care of pregnant women with diabetes, including gestational diabetes. This initiative aims to improve outcomes for both mothers and children, especially in low- and middle-income countries where access to specialized care is often limited.
Gestational diabetes is a metabolic change triggered by hormones produced during pregnancy that interfere with insulin action, the substance responsible for regulating blood sugar. While all pregnant women are exposed to risk of developing the condition,it is more common in those with a family history of diabetes,who are overweight or experiencing significant weight gain during pregnancy,are older,have polycystic ovaries,have previously had gestational diabetes in other pregnancies,are carrying twins,or have previously delivered large babies.
uncontrolled gestational diabetes can lead to serious complications, including pre-eclampsia, stillbirth, and birth injuries. Furthermore, it increases the long-term risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other cardiometabolic diseases for both the mother and the child.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the significance of this new standard of care, stating, “These guidelines are based on the realities of women’s lives and health needs and provide clear, evidence-based strategies to deliver high-quality care to all women, everywhere.”
The guidelines encompass 27 key recommendations covering nutrition, physical activity, blood glucose goals, and the necessity of frequent blood sugar monitoring – both during medical consultations and at home. The guidance also details appropriate treatment strategies based on the type of diabetes – type 1, type 2, or gestational – including medication when needed. Special attention is given to the importance of multidisciplinary support for women who already lived with diabetes prior to pregnancy.
The publication stresses the importance of integrating diabetes care into existing prenatal services and expanding access to essential medicines, tests, and technologies. This initiative aligns with the goals of World Diabetes Day 2025, which focuses on the need for continuous care throughout all stages of life.
Diabetes is a rapidly growing global health challenge, currently affecting over 800 million people worldwide and contributing to conditions like heart disease, kidney failure, blindness, and amputations. The most significant growth in diabetes cases is occurring in low- and middle-income countries, where disparities in diagnosis and treatment remain a critical concern.
Source: Metropolises.
