Dhaka: 8 to 13 in every 100 pregnant women suffer from diabetes, highlighting the growing health challenge posed by pregnancy-time diabetes. Rafiza Ahmed, a resident of Mohammadpur, discovered her diabetic condition eight weeks into her pregnancy after a routine blood test. Her experience underscores the complex management required for expectant mothers with diabetes.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the World Diabetes Foundation reports that 8 to 13 percent of women experience diabetes during pregnancy. This condition poses significant risks, with experts noting that nearly 10 percent of mothers face the risk of developing diabetes while pregnant. Furthermore, the risk of heart disease in fetuses of diabetic mothers is three to four times higher compared to those of non-diabetic mothers.
National Professor Dr. Shahala Khatun highlighted the increasing incidence of pregnancy-time diabetes. She explained that hormonal imbalances during pregnancy can exacerbate the risk for those predisposed to diabetes. Dr. Khatun emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and management, stating that untreated diabetes can jeopardize both mother and child.
A study by Stanford Children Health in California supports these findings, noting that some women may have pre-existing diabetes, while others develop it during pregnancy. Professor Dr. Imtiaz Mahbub pointed to lifestyle factors as major contributors to diabetes and stressed the need for widespread awareness to combat this silent disease.
Dr. Sohelur Rahman, a medicine specialist, advocated for comprehensive education on diabetes management to mitigate long-term risks. He emphasized the role of educational institutions and parents in promoting healthy lifestyles among children to prevent diabetes.
Dr. Rahman also noted that government efforts alone are insufficient to address this widespread issue. Community awareness and education are crucial in preventing and managing diabetes, which could potentially save 80 percent of the population from developing Type 2 diabetes.