A Quantitative Analysis to Evaluate the Association of Exposure to Organochlorine Pesticides in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus As Compared to Pregnant Women With Normal Glucose Tolerance Test

Abstract

Introduction: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is characterized by glucose intolerance during pregnancy, often asymptomatic but occasionally presenting with severe hyperglycemia. GDM affects 5% to 7% of pregnancies in high-income countries, while in India, it impacts up to 5 million women annually, leading to increased obstetrical complications and long-term health risks. In our study we estimate the levels of organochlorine pesticides in pregnant females, and determine the association of exposure to organochlorine pesticides in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and in Pregnant women with Normal Glucose tolerance test.
Methods: The study was conducted as an observational cross-sectional study at Sarojini Naidu Medical College, Agra, over 1.5 years (November 2022 to April 2024). Pregnant women (n=100) aged over 18 years, including those with normal glucose tolerance and GDM, were included, while non-pregnant women and those with known diabetes mellitus were excluded. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and inferential tests, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.
Results: GDM patients had a significantly higher mean age and BMI compared to non-GDM patients. Low HDL and high LDL levels were also significantly associated with GDM. Furthermore, levels of P, P’DDD and P, P’DDE were significantly elevated in GDM patients, suggesting a possible link between organochlorine exposure and GDM.
Conclusion: The study indicates a significant association between high BMI and GDM, as well as a positive correlation between organochlorine exposure and GDM. These findings underscore the need for lifestyle modifications and reduced use of organochlorine pesticides to lower GDM prevalence. However, further large-scale studies are necessary to validate these results.