Maternal Gestational Diabetes and Autism Spectrum Disorder in Offspring: Risk Factors, Mechanisms, and Pediatric Implications

Rasha Maryam; Zyna Fayaz; Nafila Musthafa; Jasna Abdul Jaleel; Shadha Nasser Mohammed Bahutair; Rasha Aziz Attia Salama; Mohamed Anas Patni

doi:10.18502/dmj.v8i2.19010

المؤلفون

Rasha Maryam College of Medicine, Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah
Zyna Fayaz College of Medicine, Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah
Nafila Musthafa College of Medicine, Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah
Jasna Abdul Jaleel College of Medicine, Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah https://orcid.org/0009-0003-2277-9983
Shadha Nasser Mohammed Bahutair Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah https://orcid.org/0009-0002-6427-1355
Rasha Aziz Attia Salama Department of Community Medicine, Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1102-9306
Mohamed Anas Patni Department of Community Medicine, Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6948-3619

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18502/dmj.v8i2.19010

الكلمات المفتاحية:

autistic spectrum disorder (ASD)، endocrinology، gestational diabetes (GDM)، neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD)، psychiatry

الملخص

Introduction: Gestational diabetes (GDM) complicates around 14% of pregnancies globally. While GDM’s physiological effects are often transient, its long-lasting effects on the mother and the child are significant. Studies show a heightened chance of autism occurring in offspring subjected to gestational diabetes in utero.

Methods: A thorough search of literature was performed across PubMed, SCOPUS, and ProQuest, identifying 35 relevant studies published between 2012 and 2024. This review focuses on exploring the impact of GDM on the offspring’s chances of developing autism. It aims to explore the factors influencing this relationship, such as the timing of GDM onset, the presence of coexisting complications, and the condition’s underlying mechanisms.

Results: The findings demonstrate that gestational diabetes can significantly increase the risk of autism. Key factors influencing this relationship include the timing of diagnosis, maternal glucose management, and treatment strategies during pregnancy. Potential mechanisms include increased fetal exposure to inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune dysregulation.

Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of early and effective GDM management and its pediatric implications for improving neurodevelopmental outcomes in offspring during early childhood.

المراجع

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