Wyndham mothers have one of the highest rates of gestational diabetes in the state, recent research by Diabetes Victoria reveals.
The rate of gestational diabetes is significantly higher [7.1 per cent] than the state average [2.8 per cent], for expectant mums developing the condition, which usually resolves itself after the baby’s birth.
Diabetes Victoria spokeswoman Lyn Curtis said its recent data surveyed diabetes sufferers registered with the National Diabetes Services Scheme.
There are 9524 registered diabetics in Wyndham, representing 5.3 per cent of the population, 0.3 per cent higher than the state average.
The most common forms of diabetes are Types 1 and 2, the latter type representing almost 90 per cent of registrants.
Ms Curtis said while Type 1 diabetes can’t be prevented, changes in lifestyle – exercising, healthy eating and losing weight – can prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes.
But Ms Curtis warned the statistics do not take into account those living with “silent diabetes”, who are yet to be diagnosed, and those diabetics not registered with the scheme.
FACTS
- In Australia, three to eight per cent of pregnant women are diagnosed with gestational diabetes
- The most common time to develop this condition is between weeks 24 and 28 of the pregnancy
- All women should be routinely tested for gestational diabetes around the 26th or 28th week of their pregnancy.
- Sometimes, especially if there is a previous history of gestational diabetes, the test may be done earlier.
For more information, visit Diabetes Victoria.
