A new study published by St. Michael’s Hospital in conjunction with the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences (ICES) and Women’s College Hospital with Project for an Ontario Women’s Health Evidence-Based Report reveals half of the women who have diabetes prior to becoming pregnant, undergo C-sections that could have been avoided. Infants have a mortality rate two times higher than those being born vaginally when maternal diabetes is a complication.
The study is being completed as a means to help in the planning and implementation of better and more effective health care options for women in Ontario. Among the data published were several facts about diabetes, C-Sections and infant mortality.
- Women without diabetes giving birth by C-Section – 27%
- Women with gestational diabetes giving birth by C-Section – 37%
- Women with adult onset diabetes giving birth by C-Section – 45%
- Maternal adult onset diabetes increases risk of fetal complications two-fold.
- Stillbirth and infant mortality rates higher in women with adult onset diabetes – 5.2 per 1,000 vs. 2.5 per 1,000.
- Risk of congenital abnormalities 60% higher in women with adult onset diabetes.
Diabetes is quickly becoming a serious health concern for women of child-bearing age. Researchers noted that 50% of people who have yet to be diagnosed with diabetes have symptoms or risk factors of diabetes. Dr. Arlene Bierman, an ICES investigator, noted, “We need to focus on preventing or reducing rates of diabetes among young women, one of the most vulnerable groups, and ensure that women who have diabetes get effective treatment.”
Source: Dr. Gillian Booth, Dr. Arlene Bierman, Julie Saccone. St. Michael’s Hospital, Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences and Women’s College Hospital with Project for an Ontario Women’s Health Evidence-Based Report. 20 September, 2010.