Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), autism affects 1 in 100 children. Nevertheless, the possible risk factors have not been extensively studied. Emerging evidence suggests that gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) may adversely affect neurodevelopment, potentially increasing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk. This study investigates the association between GDM and autism-related behavioral markers in offspring.

Material and Methods: Using cross-sectional survey data based on M-ChartRF and questionnaire assessing prenatal condition, we analyzed maternal health metrics, including gestational blood glucose levels, alongside autism-related behaviors in children. The sample comprised 300 dyads aged 16-30 months, with variables focused on GDM exposure and subsequent child behavioral indicators. Additionally, we conducted a comprehensive review of existing literature on PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Google Scholar to support our findings, examining studies on the relationship between maternal diabetes and neurodevelopmental outcomes in offspring. Key studies were selected to provide a robust scientific foundation for our analysis and interpretation of survey data.

Results.: Preliminary linear regression analysis demonstrates a statistically significant association between maternal prepartum hyperglycemia and the manifestation of ASD-related behaviors in offspring. Specifically, 36.4% of toddlers born to mothers with prepartum hyperglycemia are classified as at moderate risk for ASD. In comparison, only 13.9% of toddlers born to mothers without elevated blood glucose levels exhibit moderate to high risk for ASD. Consequently, maternal hyperglycemia is associated with a 2.6-fold increase in the risk of autism spectrum disorder in offspring.

Conclusion.: Findings underscore the significance of maternal glycemic regulation during pregnancy as a potential factor influencing ASD-related behaviors, supporting further exploration of prenatal glucose management’s role in neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Key words.: Autism spectrum disorder, Gestational Diabetes, neurodevelopment, glucose.