Call for papers – Diagnosis and management of gestational diabetes

BMC Medicine is calling for submissions to our Collection, Diagnosis and management of gestational diabetes, focusing on implementation of new guidelines, diagnostic thresholds, recommendations, and screening approaches to effectively improve maternal and neonatal health in a variety of settings. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a condition characterized by insulin resistance and impaired glucose tolerance that develops during pregnancy. It is the most common complication in pregnancy and poses short-term and long-term risks to both maternal and neonatal health, which can be averted by accurate and early diagnosis. Although widely adopted, current diagnostic criteria for GDM—such as those proposed by The International Association of the Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG) and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)—remain controversial due to their reliance on associations with adverse pregnancy outcomes Thus, no universally accepted diagnostic protocol for GDM has been established, hindering global comparisons and individualized care.  

Understanding the mechanisms behind GDM is crucial for effective management and prevention strategies. Recent studies have identified various risk factors, including obesity, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle choices, which can significantly influence the onset of GDM. As awareness of this condition grows, there is a pressing need for comprehensive research that addresses its complexities and implications for maternal and child health. 

Advances in screening methods, dietary interventions, and management guidelines have shown promise in mitigating the impacts of GDM. The integration of technology, such as telemedicine, continuous glucose monitoring, and artificial intelligence, offers exciting new avenues for improving GDM screening and management, allowing for tailored approaches that enhance patient outcomes.  

Future research in this domain holds the potential to revolutionize how we diagnose and manage GDM. By exploring diverse diagnostic thresholds and antenatal care protocols, refining risk prediction models, and investigating the impact of nutrition and weight gain during pregnancy, we can develop more effective preventative interventions. Additionally, leveraging new technologies could improve access to care and support for high-risk women, ultimately improving the health of mothers and their infants. 

Topics include but are not limited to: 

• Screening guidelines and diagnostic thresholds for GDM 
• Genetic, metabolic and environmental heterogeneity in GDM: how should this influence diagnosis, treatment and management   
• Tailored treatment of GDM: from maternal nutrition to weight management during pregnancy 
• Emerging medical technologies in GDM screening, monitoring and management 
• GDM risk prediction models and biomarkers for diverse populations 
• Telemedicine approaches for GDM diagnostics and care 
• New knowledge in omics in GDM  
• Cost-effectiveness analyses of GDM screening strategies and treatment strategies  

All manuscripts submitted to this journal, including those submitted to collections and special issues, are assessed in line with our editorial policies and the journal’s peer review process. Reviewers and editors are required to declare competing interests and can be excluded from the peer review process if a competing interest exists.   

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 5: Gender Equality. 

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