Diabetes and thyroid issues common among pregnant women

A Study discovered higher prevalence of diabetes and thyroid issues among pregnant women

The Qatar Birth Cohort Study, a unique initiative in the Middle East, has discovered a higher prevalence of diabetes and thyroid issues among pregnant women in the region.

According to the study, approximately 33% of pregnant women in Qatar experience diabetes (30% gestational diabetes; 3% diabetes), and 19% have thyroid dysfunction, marking the first-of-its-kind research in the Middle East.

Conducted by Qatar Biobank, the study aims to investigate the impact of factors like genetics, environment, nutrition, and social elements on fetal growth and the health of both the mother and child. Enrolling 3,000 families, the study tracks the development of children until they reach five years of age.

The Qatar Birth Cohort Study focuses on chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and mental health, which are more prevalent in Qatar compared to other regions globally.

The study involves comprehensive clinical assessments, including blood and biological sample collection, and lifestyle questionnaires during a 3-hour visit at 12–15 weeks of pregnancy. Follow-ups occur in the third trimester and at delivery, with assessments of the child at various stages. Fathers are also encouraged to participate.

According to the Qatar Biobank's 2022/2023 annual report, over 400 pregnant women participated, with Qataris comprising 28%, other Arab nationalities 54%, and other non-Arab nationalities 17%. The collected data led to 210 medical referrals, covering conditions such as dyslipidemia, diabetes, abnormal thyroid function tests for pregnant women, and various health issues for fathers, including eczema/dermatitis, thyroid disease, and cardiovascular disease.

Source: The Peninsula