How Lifestyle Choices are Increasing Gestational Diabetes Risks for Moms and Newborns: Expert Insights from Hyderabad

Hyderabad: As World Health Day highlights the importance of mothers and newborns, Telangana faces a concerning rise in gestational diabetes. Research indicates that about one in six pregnant women in the state struggle with this condition, mirroring trends across India.

This year’s World Health Day theme is ‘Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures’. While many think gestational diabetes disappears after birth, that’s not always true. Dr. Rakesh Sahay, an endocrinology expert from Osmania Hospital, warns that some women remain at risk and should be mindful of their diet and lifestyle choices.

Women with a family history of diabetes are at higher risk, but factors like obesity and an unhealthy lifestyle also play a role. Additionally, babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes might suffer from low blood sugar levels, complicating their early life.

In Telangana, new efforts are in place to address post-delivery complications, which currently affect 26% of women. The state recently launched maternal morbidity clinics, a first in India. “Postpartum complications can have lasting effects, and continuous care is essential,” says health commissioner RV Karnan.

Over 400,000 women have been assessed in these clinics, revealing that approximately 14% experienced complications lasting beyond 42 days. These complications can include stress and pelvic organ prolapse, which can hinder a mother’s ability to care for her newborn.

Interestingly, a study from the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism noted that gestational diabetes has seen a global rise, with some countries reporting increases of up to 50% in the past decade. This rise correlates with lifestyle changes and increasing obesity rates, making awareness and management more critical than ever.

Taking care of maternal health not only benefits mothers but also strengthens the foundation for healthier future generations. It’s a reminder for all of us to pay attention to our health, especially during and after pregnancy.

Check out this related article: Olivia Plath Challenges the Norm: Why She’s Speaking Out Against a Fundamentalist Lifestyle

Source link

Hyderabad news, Hyderabad latest news, Hyderabad news live, Hyderabad news today, Today news Hyderabad,pregnant women health,maternal morbidity,healthy lifestyle during pregnancy,gestational diabetes,diabetes in pregnancy