Published online Nov 15, 2023. doi: 10.4239/wjd.v14.i11.1693
Peer-review started: February 26, 2023
First decision: April 20, 2023
Revised: May 18, 2023
Accepted: October 11, 2023
Article in press: October 11, 2023
Published online: November 15, 2023
Processing time: 260 Days and 22.9 Hours
Core Tip: Maternal and fetal effects of uncontrolled gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) include stillbirth, macrosomia, neonatal diabetes, and birth trauma. Risk factors are maternal obesity or overweight, pre-existing diabetes mellitus, and polycystic ovary syndrome. The complex pathophysiology involves genetic variants, pancreatic β cell depletion or dysfunction, aggravated insulin resistance due to glucose transporter 4 translocation failure, and chronic, low-grade inflammation. Antepartum measurements including adipokines (leptin), body mass ratio (waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio), and biomarkers (microRNA in extracellular vesicles) are useful markers for predicting GDM. For preventing GDM, physical activity and diet (such as the Mediterranean diet) control are effective interventions.