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Fatma Ali Tarish Mohsen1, Finn Friis Lauszus2, Marlene Briciet Lauritsen3
1Det Sundhedsvidenskabelige Fakultet, Københavns Universitet.
Insights
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) increases a child's risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Early GDM diagnosis in mothers further elevates this risk, highlighting the importance of timely intervention.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Background:
- Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a significant complication of pregnancy.
- GDM is linked to various adverse child outcomes, but specific associations with developmental disorders require clarification.
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with increasing prevalence.
Approach:
- This review synthesizes current research on the association between maternal GDM and the risk of ASD in offspring.
- Focuses on findings from large-scale cohort studies.
- Summarizes the latest evidence regarding the timing of GDM diagnosis and its impact on ASD risk.
Key Points:
- Large cohort studies demonstrate a statistically significant association between GDM and an increased risk of ASD in children.
- The risk of developing ASD appears to be dose-dependent on GDM, with earlier maternal diagnosis correlating with higher risk.
- This suggests a potential biological or environmental pathway linking GDM during pregnancy to neurodevelopmental trajectories.
Conclusions:
- Maternal GDM is a confirmed risk factor for ASD in children.
- The timing of GDM diagnosis during pregnancy is a critical factor influencing the magnitude of ASD risk.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and inform preventative strategies.
Abstract:
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with a number of complications, including developmental disorders in the child but the specific association is unclear. The purpose of this review is to summarize the latest knowledge about the association between GDM and one of the developmental disorders, namely autism spectrum disorder (ASF) in the child. Large cohort studies found that GDM increases the risk of ASF in the child, and that the risk increases the earlier the mother is diagnosed with GDM.