Autism Spectrum Disorders in Offspring Exposed to Maternal Gestational Diabetes: a Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

AbstractThe association between maternal diabetes and risk of autism spectrum disorder in offspring was not completely consistent. We performed an updated and systematic review and meta-analysis with relevant studies published until 6 August 2020. We included 17 publications, describing 15 studies, including 1,751,537 participants. Exposure to maternal diabetes in utero was correlated to an increased risk of ASD (effect estimate 1.30 [95% CI: 1.16 –1.46]). Offspring exposure to maternal diabetes with antidiabetic medication has a heightened risk of ASD by 48% than offspring with a non-diabetic mother, and 42% than offspring with diabetic mother not receiving medical treatment. Exposure to maternal diabetes in utero increases the risk of ASD in offspring, especially exposure to maternal diabetes with antidiabetic medication.
Source: Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders - Category: Child Development Source Type: research