Irregular Menses
Predict Gestational Diabetes
posted 05/28/03
A history of irregular menses is an independent predictor of gestational
diabetes mellitus.
That, according to a report in the May issue of the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Gregory J. Locksmith and colleagues from the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, analyzed demographic characteristics, body mass index, and medical history for 85 pregnant women with gestational diabetes and compared these data with that from 85 matched controls.
Demographic and obstetric characteristics were similar between cases and controls. However, mean body mass index was higher in cases than in controls (26.5 kg/m squared versus 24.5 kg/m squared, p = 0.004). Cases also had a higher prevalence of irregular cycles than controls did (24% versus 7%, p = 0.006). After stratification for body mass index, the researchers a strong association between irregular cycles and gestational diabetes remained (odds ratio 3.75). There were no significant differences between cases and control in terms of mean maternal glucose screening levels.
"We believe a history of irregular cycles before pregnancy may be an effective surrogate for polycystic ovarian syndrome and, as such, a predictor for gestational diabetes mellitus that is independent of other traditional risk factors," Dr. Locksmith and colleagues note.
"Inclusion of these patients in the selective screening population could increases the sensitivity of the screening program without much effect on the specificity," they add.
Source: Diabetes In Control Dot Com: American Journal Obstetrics and Gynecology 2003;188:1189-1191.
Home -
Table of
Contents -
Donate Now -
About
Diabetes -
Warning Signs -
Complications
- Screening Test -
Diabetes
Terms -
Site Search -
Meet
Mr. Diabetes® -
Wake Up And
Walk® Tour -
Latest News -
Headlines
& News Stories -
Health
& Fitness -
About Us -
FAQ
- Research Form -
-
Message Board -
Privacy
Policy -
Legal Notices
-
How to Contact Us
-
Comments form -
Suggestion Form
- Our E-Mail
Addresses -
Our Address and Phone
Numbers -
Links
-
Contact Us