Scholars International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology (SIJOG)
Volume-7 | Issue-03 | 100-107
Original Research Article
Relation of Raised HbA1C Level with Congenital Deformity of Fetus Detected by Anomaly Scan in 2nd Trimester of Pregnancy in Diabetic Mother
Dr. Sadia Sharmin Suborna, Dr. Numaya Habib, Dr. Nowshin Yesmin Tonny, Dr. Sadia Dora, Dr. Farzana Aktar, Dr. Khadiza Akter Sumi, Dr. Najmatun Jikria
Published : March 15, 2024
Abstract
Background: Pregnant women with pre-existing diabetes face an elevated risk of congenital anomalies in their offspring. However, research on the pattern of congenital anomalies and its correlation with blood sugar control in pre-gestational diabetic mothers is limited, especially in our country's context. This study investigated the association between elevated HbA1c levels and congenital anomalies in diabetes-related pregnancies. Objective: To assess whether raised HbA1c levels were linked to an increased incidence of congenitally deformed fetal outcomes in pregnancies affected by diabetes. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2018 to September 2019 at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, DMCH. Women with pre-gestational diabetes were sequentially enrolled if they provided informed consent. Data, including HbA1c levels and anomaly scans, were collected at 18-24 weeks of gestation. Participants were divided into two groups based on HbA1c levels: Group-1 (elevated HbA1c) and Group-2 (normal HbA1c). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 22, with significance at p<0.05. Result: The mean ages of Group 1 and Group 2 were 31.60±2.89 & 30.51±2.99 (SD) years. Both groups were similar concerning age, residence, education, occupation, economic status, and BMI (p>0.05 in all factors). Mean HbA1C (%) of Group-1 and Group-2 were 8.57±2.22 & 6.18±0.20 (p<0.001), respectively. Congenital anomalies were more frequent in Group 1 (15.6 vs 2.2; p<0.05), and it is associated with high blood sugar levels (p<0.001) and with a previous history of anomalous babies in preceding pregnancies. Conclusion: Elevated HbA1c levels are associated with an increased incidence of congenital anomalies in pregnancies complicated by diabetes. This underscores the importance of strict glycemic control in pregnant women with pre-gestational diabetes to mitigate the risk of adverse fetal outcomes. Further, population-based studies are desired to validate these findings and inform clinical management strategies.