Trends des Gestationsdiabetes in Deutschland

Women with gestational diabetes (GDM) have a significantly increased risk of complications such as premature birth, Caesarean section, and neonatal problems. GDM also increases the long-term risk of cardiovascular disease and development of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). As a result of the nationwide introduction of GDM screening in 2013 as part of an amendment to the maternity guideline, screening for GDM in pregnant women is consistently around 90%. Despite differing prevalence estimates based on various data sources, the prevalence of GDM in Germany can be said to have steadily increased in recent years and is likely to be around 15%. The continuous rise in prevalence is also linked to an increase in risk factors such as older age at pregnancy and obesity. Women experiencing GDM during pregnancy have a significantly increased risk of developing T2DM later in life. Studies show that this risk increases linearly throughout life: while 10 years after pregnancy, around one in five women with GDM may develop T2DM, after 50 years the risk is around 60%. Postpartum follow-up has an essential impact on the early detection and prevention of T2DM. Around 40% of women with GDM in Germany take part in postpartum follow-ups. Improved postpartum follow-up programs and increased education on lifestyle modifications, nutrition, and breastfeeding could contribute to a long-term reduction in the T2DM risk.