Maternal glycaemia during pregnancy and child carotid intima media thickness, pulse wave velocity and augmentation index

A team at the National University Health System in Singapore led by Wen Yuan investigated the association between maternal glucose levels during pregnancy and cardiovascular risk markers in their children at age 6. Involving 1,247 pregnant women, the research revealed that elevated fasting plasma glucose levels were correlated with heightened carotid intima-media thickness and increased arterial stiffness in the offspring. Surprisingly, no such association was found with blood pressure. This investigation underscores the lasting impact of gestational diabetes on vascular structure and function in children. The findings emphasize the significance of monitoring maternal glycemia during pregnancy and providing education to individuals at risk, shedding light on potential long-term health implications.