Household Air Pollution Linked to Gestational Diabetes

As north India grapples with severe air pollution, a recent study reveals a concerning link between the use of solid fuels like coal, crop residue, and wood for cooking and heating and the increased risk of gestational diabetes during pregnancy (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Effects of household air pollution and healthy lifestyle associated with gestational diabetes mellitus

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What is Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a common complication during pregnancy. Women with GDM are likely to be at an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, and a future risk of diabetes. Children born also run a long-term risk of childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes.

The study led by researchers from Zunyi Medical University, in China, included 4,338 women, with a mean age of 27 years. Of these, 302 women had GDM. Pregnant women using solid fuels for heating had a higher risk of GDM than those using clean energy. The results published in the journal Scientific Reports showed that expecting mothers with GDM had a higher prenatal BMI. They also observed significant differences in physical activity and sleep duration, compared to pregnant women without GDM.

“However, leading a healthy lifestyle showed profound differences. When a healthy lifestyle was included such as proper diet, adequate sleep, normal weight, and the incidence rate of GDM decreased. Higher consumption of vegetables and fruits, and proper vitamin D supplementation also helped reduce the risk of GDM.

“This suggests that adherence to a healthy lifestyle may reduce the risk of GDM in pregnant women exposed to household air pollution,” the researchers said. The study comes as air quality in the national capital has deteriorated to severe and extremely poor levels in the past few days. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘very poor’ category on Saturday with a thick smog engulfing the capital.

Reference:

1. Effects of household air pollution and healthy lifestyle associated with gestational diabetes mellitus - (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-75155-0)

Source-IANS