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Gestational Diabetes Rates Skyrocket 36% in US
1 Jan
Summary
- Gestational diabetes rates increased by 36% from 2016-2024.
- Healthier lifestyles in young adults are declining.
- Disproportionate impact on American Indian/Alaska Native and Asian women.
Rates of gestational diabetes have surged by 36% across the United States over the past eight years, from 2016 to 2024. This marks a concerning continuation of a decade-long trend, indicating that existing public health strategies have been ineffective in curbing the rise of diabetes during pregnancy.
Researchers attribute this escalating issue to the declining health of young adults nationwide. Factors such as less nutritious diets, decreased physical activity, and increased rates of obesity are believed to be primary drivers behind the growing prevalence of gestational diabetes.
The study also revealed significant disparities, with American Indian, Alaska Native, Asian, Native Hawaiian, and other Pacific Islander women experiencing substantially higher rates. Experts emphasize the urgent need for targeted public health and policy interventions to improve access to quality healthcare and promote healthier behaviors for all individuals, particularly before and during pregnancy.
