Prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus and the effect of weight on measures of insulin secretion and insulin resistance in third‐trimester pregnant rural women residing in the Central Region of Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

The present study shows that there is a high prevalence of GIGT/GDM, with most women having IGT. The GIGT/GDM present in these women is characterized by increased insulin sensitivity accompanied by reduced pancreatic B-cell function. Additionally, heavier women appear to have increased first phase insulin secretion, suggesting the presence of insulin resistance.