Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Korean Women: Similarities and Differences from Other Racial/Ethnic Groups

Abstract

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) reflects defects in insulin secretion in response to the metabolic demands of pregnancy. While GDM is increasingly common worldwide due in large part to the obesity epidemic, its frequency is relatively low in Korean women. In this report, the prevalence and risk factors for GDM, perinatal outcomes, and postpartum course are compared in non-Korean and Korean women. While Koreans and non-Koreans with GDM share pathophysiology and complications, there may be differences in the role of obesity and thus the effectiveness of interventions targeting obesity in GDM women. Further investigations of the effectiveness of weight loss interventions and pharmacotherapy specifically among Korean women are needed. Dietary and other lifestyle data from Korean populations could inform prevention and treatment strategies in other countries which suffer from significantly higher prevalences of GDM.

Circulating retinol-binding protein 4 levels in gestational diabetes mellitus: a meta-analysis of observational studies

“…Previous studies suggested GDM has a strong genetic basis [41]. Under the influence of environment, lifestyles, and genetic factors, the association between RBP4 and the pathophysiology of GDM might vary in different regions [42,43]. A very recent meta-analysis investigated the association between RBP4 and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which [44] seemed to support our hypothesis by demonstrating that RBP4 levels were higher in PCOS patients in Asian countries, but not in European countries.…”

Prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus in women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus

“…GDM has its clinical implications for both perinatal and postpartum maternal outcomes [5]. Perinatal outcomes include preeclampsia, Cesarean section, macrosomia, neonatal hypoglycemia, and hyperbilirubinemia, of which the risk is increased in women with GDM.…”

Prediction of gestational diabetes mellitus in the Born in Guangzhou Cohort Study, China

“…[8][9][10] Identifying the most important factors predicting GDM at a population level could aid in the primary prevention of GDM, highlighting major modifiable risk factors that are locally relevant. However, the relative importance and interaction of risk factors can differ between Asian women and other racial or ethnic groups.…”