Issues of Universal Screening for Gestational Diabetes

Issues of Universal Screening for Gestational Diabetes
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Issues of Universal Screening for Gestational Diabetes
1. The issue of universal screening for gestational diabetes
Using the current guidelines, 135,000 women in the U.S are diagnoses with gestational diabetes every year, 4% being pregnant women (Alexandria, 2010). With the introduction of the new criteria for diagnosis, this figure is expected to increase tremendously. Various changes have been proposed to help more women test for gestational diabetes; this is viewed as part of offering quality health care for both the mother and the baby, reducing any health risks during pregnancy. The changes, however, need to be implemented gradually, as the current system is still helpful. Gestational diabetes, if not treated, causes complication especially during delivery. It also increases the chances for both the baby and the mother from having diabetes type 2 in the future (Alexandria, 2010).
2. Discuss the pros and cons of universal screening.
Universal screening for gestational diabetes minimizes any complications that might arise during delivery. It further reduces the chances of the mother and the baby from developing diabetes 2 in the future. However, research notes that the criteria used for screening may result to some women with clinical non-significant hyperglyc...