Screening Test for Women at Risk of Development Gestational Diabetes Mellitus by Glycosylated Hemoglobin in Tikrit City.

Abstract

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a carbohydrate intolerance with onset or first recognition in pregnancy. GDM is characterized by insulin levels that are insufficient to meet insulin demands. The causes of pancreatic β-cell dysfunction that lead to insulin insufficiency in GDM are not fully defined.

Aim: To measure glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in the screening GDM (for women at risk of development of GDM).

Patients and Methods: The study was carried out in Salahadeen general hospital in Tikrit city from beginning of February to the end of June 2018. One hundred and 23 women in the 2^nd trimester of pregnancy, who admitted to Salahadeen general hospital/Obstetric part were participated in the study. HbA1c, fasting blood sugar and hemoglobin levels were measured.

Results: The study found that a 40.7% of pregnant women in the 3^rd trimester of pregnancy have increased HbA1c level comparing with 0.82% of the same women when they were in 2^nd trimester. Also, the highest mean percentage of HbA1c was recorded among women in the 3^rd trimester of pregnancy comparing with them when they were in the 2^nd trimester (5.77and4.89% respectively). The study showed that the highest rate of increased HbA1c was recorded among 3^rd trimester pregnant women who belonged to the age group 30- 35 and 36-40 years.

Conclusion: The present study concluded that; the highest mean level of HbA1c was recorded in 3^rd trimester pregnant women comparing with 2^nd trimester pregnant women. The evaluation of HbA1c level was most simple, accurate screening manner for GDM than blood sugar.