ASSOCIATION OF ELEVATED SERUM FERRITIN LEVELS WITH GESTATIONAL DIABETES MELLITUS IN PREGNANCY AND RISK OF GESTATIONAL DIABETES MELLITUS: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

BACKGROUND: “Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a condition marked by pregnancy related carbohydrate intolerance”. Its incidence increasing globally due to factors like lifestyle changes, maternal age, and obesity, posing risks to both mother and baby, including perinatal complications. Identified risk factors encompass ‘advanced maternal age’, ‘high body mass index’ (BMI), a history of ‘gestational diabetes mellitus’ (GDM), a’ family history of diabetes,’ and ethnic predisposition. Despite extensive research on GDM, the role of serum ferritin levels as a predictive marker remains largely unexplored. Addressing this gap,Our study aims to explore the relationship between elevated serum ferritin levels and development of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). This research could support early interventions, improving maternal and neonatal outcomes and guiding preventive measures. MATERIALS AND METHODS:In proposed study at RLJH Hospital, pregnant women at 16-24 weeks gestation, meeting eligibility criteria, were enrolled after informed consent. Demographic, obstetric, medical history, and examinations were recorded during OPD visits, along with relevant investigations. All 94 mothers underwent Oral Glucose Challenge Test (OGCT) between 16-24 weeks, and among them 47 mothers with values >140 mg/dL were classified as GDM, and equal number of subjects with normal OGCT were regarded as Non-GDM group. Serum ferritin was measured via vitros 5600 autoanalyzer method. Serum ferritin levels were grouped into four quintiles (<30, 30-60, 60-90, >90 ng/dL), assessing their association with GDM xxiii | P a g e occurrence. This comprehensive approach aimed to evaluate serum ferritin's relevance in GDM diagnosis and management. RESULTS:The study enrolled 94 pregnant women, undergoing OGCT, with 50% classified as GDM and 50% as non-GDM controls, age-matched. GDM mothers showed significantly higher OGCT levels (mean: 167.77 ± 13.83 mg/dL) compared to non-GDM (mean: 111.17 ± 15.93 mg/dL). Age distribution, BMI, gravidity, and gestational age revealed no significant differences between 2 groups. Family history of GDM, previous GDM incidence, and previous big baby were associated in the GDM group. Serum ferritin levels were significantly elevated in GDM mothers (mean: 77.19 ± 32.88 ng/mL) compared to non-GDM (mean: 48.43 ± 26.93 ng/mL), with a positive correlation to OGCT levels. Insulin therapy corresponded to the highest serum ferritin levels, followed by oral hypoglycemics, then medical nutrition therapy. CONCLUSION:The study indicates a significant difference in serum ferritin levels between GDM and non-GDM groups, suggesting a potential association. Correlations were found between serum ferritin and OGCT levels, particularly in individuals with poor sugar control.Treatment mode influenced serum ferritin levels, with insulin therapy correlating to higher levels. These findings highlight serum ferritin's potential as a GDM biomarker, warranting further investigation for personalized prevention and treatment strategies.