Family history in the Aetiology of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

The aetiology of Type 2 diabetes [NIDDM] is assumed to involve a multiplicity of causal factors involving both genetic and environmental, including intrauterine, components. Aim: To identify the relationship of various aspects of family history and hence the possible role of genetic influence in the development of Type 2 DM in the Maltese population. Methods: The family history details of a study population undergoing an oGTT during pregnancy was assessed during pregnancy and at follow-up eight years postpartum. The findings were related to previous national epidemiological studies. Results: The study showed a definite statistical correlation between a maternal and sibling family history of diabetes with the onset of GDM/GIGT and later Type 2 DM. No such correlation was shown with a paternal or grandparent family history. Conclusions: The findings suggest that genetic factors are poor determinants for adult-onset GDM or Type 2 DM, the major role player being apparently alterations in the intrauterine environment of the fetus.