Mapping Gestational Diabetes Mellitus – A Narrative Review of Key Determinants and Epidemiology

Sana  Sarfaraz; Nazia  Rizwan; Amber  Sharif; Rabia  Altaf; Maaz Bin  Nasim; Shahzada Khurram  Syed; Atifa  Mushtaq; Fahad  Asim; Muhammad Naveed  Mushtaq; Muhammad  Sarfraz; Waqas  Ahmad; Barirah Barak  Ullah; Abdul  Qader

doi:10.54112/bcsrj.v6i4.1535

Authors

Sana Sarfaraz Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
Nazia Rizwan Lahore College for Women University, General Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
Amber Sharif School of Pharmacy, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, Pakistan
Rabia Altaf School of Pharmacy, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, Pakistan
Maaz Bin Nasim Lords College of Pharmacy, Lahore, Pakistan
Shahzada Khurram Syed Department of Clinical Services, School of Health Sciences, University of Management & Technology, Lahore, Pakistan
Atifa Mushtaq National Institute of Health, Islamabad, Pakistan
Fahad Asim Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
Muhammad Naveed Mushtaq Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
Muhammad Sarfraz Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
Waqas Ahmad Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
Barirah Barak Ullah Services Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
Abdul Qader Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Government College University Faisalabad, Pakistan & Hospital Pharmacist, Tehsil Headquarter Hospital Sangla Hill, Nankana Sahib, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54112/bcsrj.v6i4.1535

Keywords:

Gestational diabetes mellitus, Glucose intolerance, Insulin resistance, Obesity, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Abstract

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a glucose intolerance disorder that arises during pregnancy, posing significant risks to both maternal and neonatal health. The global burden of GDM is increasing, reflecting changes in demographic, genetic, and lifestyle factors. Objective: This narrative review aims to explore the epidemiology, risk factors, diagnostic criteria, and current preventive and management strategies associated with GDM, with an emphasis on its public health implications. Methods: This review utilized a comprehensive literature search of international databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Relevant articles published in English over the last ten years were included. Keywords such as “gestational diabetes,” “GDM risk factors,” “insulin resistance in pregnancy,” and “maternal outcomes” were used. Epidemiological trends, diagnostic approaches, and evidence-based prevention and treatment methods were synthesized from cohort studies, meta-analyses, and clinical guidelines. Results: The global prevalence of GDM varies significantly, ranging from 1% to 28%, largely influenced by screening protocols, lifestyle, and ethnic composition. Risk factors for GDM include maternal obesity, advanced maternal age, family history of diabetes, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and ethnicity. The pathophysiology involves insulin resistance, exacerbated by placental hormones. Lifestyle interventions—particularly dietary modifications and physical activity—remain the cornerstone of management. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and early screening contribute to improved glycemic control and better maternal-fetal outcomes. The link between GDM and future development of type 2 diabetes mellitus highlights the importance of postpartum follow-up. Conclusion: GDM is a growing public health concern due to rising obesity and type 2 diabetes rates. Early detection, individualized care plans, lifestyle interventions, and postpartum monitoring are critical to minimizing complications and improving long-term outcomes for both mothers and offspring.

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