Gestational Diabetes as an Indicator of Prepregnancy Cardiovascular Health

Recent research from Northwestern Medicine highlights the significant link between gestational diabetes and cardiovascular health prior to pregnancy. The study suggests that women who develop gestational diabetes are more likely to have had poorer cardiovascular health before conception, which also correlates with increased coronary artery calcium (CAC) levels in midlife, an indicator of heart disease risk. The findings emphasize that gestational diabetes may serve as a marker for underlying cardiovascular issues that exist before pregnancy, underscoring the importance of early health assessments.

This study analyzed data from the CARDIA project, involving over 1,000 young adults with an average age of 28.6 years, including diverse racial groups. Participants had at least one singleton birth, no pre-existing diabetes, and underwent cardiovascular and CAC testing. Results revealed that women with poor prepregnancy heart health were more prone to gestational diabetes and increased CAC later in life.

Dr. Natalie Cameron, the study’s lead author, stressed that healthcare providers should focus on optimizing cardiovascular health throughout a woman’s life. This includes thorough pregnancy and health histories, screening for risk factors, and promoting lifestyle interventions such as diet and physical activity. Cameron’s team is also exploring ways to improve postpartum care, including integrating activity data with electronic health records to encourage physical activity among new mothers.

These insights underscore the importance of early cardiovascular health interventions to improve pregnancy outcomes and long-term heart health. Addressing these factors proactively can help reduce the risk of future heart disease, making pregnancy a vital window for preventive healthcare.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-gestational-diabetes-poor-prepregnancy-cardiovascular.html