Missed opportunities for type 2 diabetes mellitus screening among women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Objectives: We sought to determine rates and factors associated with screening for type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) in women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus.

Methods: We retrospectively studied women with diagnosed gestational diabetes mellitus who delivered at a university-affiliated hospital (n=570). Data sources included medical and administrative record review. Main outcome measures were the frequency of any type of glucose testing at least 6 weeks after delivery and the frequency of recommended glucose testing. We assessed demographic data, past medical history, and prenatal and postpartum care characteristics.

Results: Rates of glucose testing after delivery were low. Any type of glucose testing was performed at least once after 38% of deliveries, and recommended glucose testing was performed at least once after 23% of deliveries. Among women with at least 1 visit to the health care system after delivery (n=447), 42% received any type of glucose test at least once, and 35% received a recommended glucose test at least once. Factors associated with testing were being married, having a visit with an endocrinologist after delivery, and having more visits after delivery.

Conclusions: These findings suggest that most women with gestational diabetes mellitus are not screened for type 2 DM after delivery. Opportunities for DM prevention and early treatment are being missed.