Association between C-reactive protein and gestational diabetes: a prospective study

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Endocrinology
• Immunology

Background:

• Chronic inflammation is linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
• Limited research exists on the impact of inflammatory factors on gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).
• Screening and diagnostic approaches for GDM require further clarification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and the risk of developing GDM.
• To explore the potential of early pregnancy CRP measurement as a GDM screening marker.

Main Methods:

• A cohort study recruited pregnant women with gestational age under 10 weeks.
• Serum CRP and fasting blood sugar were measured during the first prenatal visit.
• GDM diagnosis was confirmed via oral glucose tolerance test at 24-28 weeks gestation.

Main Results:

• Approximately 5% of participants were diagnosed with GDM.
• Elevated first-trimester serum CRP concentrations were significantly associated with an increased risk of GDM.
• Women with the highest CRP levels had a threefold higher risk of GDM compared to those with the lowest levels.

Conclusions:

• Systemic inflammation, indicated by elevated CRP, is associated with a higher risk of GDM.
• First-trimester CRP measurement can be a valuable, cost-effective screening tool for GDM.
• These findings suggest CRP as a potential early risk factor for GDM, aiding clinical decision-making.