Gestational diabetes linked to autism in study: what scientists say
5 hours ago
- #ADHD
- #autism
- #gestational diabetes
- Children born to mothers with gestational diabetes have a higher risk of developing ADHD and autism.
- A large study involving 48 studies across 20 countries found a 36% higher risk of ADHD and a 56% higher risk of autism in these children.
- Another meta-analysis in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology confirmed the link between all types of diabetes in pregnancy and increased risk of ADHD and autism in children.
- Genetics has the strongest influence on the risk of developing ADHD and autism, with environmental factors like gestational diabetes having a smaller effect.
- Gestational diabetes also has long-term health impacts on women, increasing risks of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and chronic kidney disease.