Final answer:
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) significantly increases the risk of women developing type 2 diabetes postpartum and later in life, with glucose intolerance often detectable via Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT). Lifestyle changes can mitigate these risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question relates to the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and glucose intolerance in women who have had gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) during pregnancy. While the specific statistics may vary across different populations and study designs, several trends have been observed in this group. Women with GDM are at a significantly higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes postpartum (PP) and later in life.
Type 2 diabetes, which represents about 90% of all diabetes cases, typically starts after the age of 40 but can occur earlier, particularly in individuals who are overweight or obese. The Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT) is a commonly used diagnostic test for assessing blood sugar control and diagnosing diabetes and pre-diabetes conditions.
GDM acts as a potential predictor for the future development of DM, with various studies suggesting that women with a history of GDM have a substantial risk of developing type 2 diabetes in subsequent years. While immediate postpartum glucose screening can reveal some level of glucose intolerance, the risk for diabetes persists and requires ongoing monitoring.
It's also worth noting that lifestyle modifications play a significant role in reducing the risk of transitioning from GDM to type 2 diabetes. Such interventions include maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and achieving moderate weight loss when necessary.