Hyperglycemia and Pregnancy in the Americas. Final report of the Pan American Conference on Diabetes and Pregnancy (Lima Peru: 8-10 September 2015)

Abstract

[Introduction]: Preexisting diabetes and hyperglycemia first detected in pregnancy can have serious consequences for the health both of the baby and the mother; in particular, these conditions increase the risk of miscarriage and perinatal morbidity and mortality. It is estimated that one out of seven pregnant women worldwide suffers from hyperglycemia, corresponding to gestational diabetes (GDM) in 85% of cases.1 Up to 30% of pregnant women may be affected, but many cases of gestational diabetes are not diagnosed, with potentially fatal consequences for mother and baby. Data on the frequency of GDM is scarce: since there is no global, standardized approach to its screening and diagnosis, GDM often goes undiagnosed. In 2013, the World Health Organization (WHO) published Diagnostic Criteria and Classification of Hyperglycaemia First Detected in Pregnancy.2 These guidelines, issued in 2013, are for health professionals who provide care to pregnant women, especially primary care physicians, obstetricians, and gynecologists. This document is the final report of the Pan American Conference on Diabetes and Pregnancy, held 8-10 September 2015 in Lima (Peru). The objective of the conference was to provide scientific information and disseminate evidence-based guidelines to improve the prevention and control of pregnancy-related diabetes in the Americas.