What is the recommended structure for a presentation on gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) to colleagues?

From the Guidelines

A recommended structure for a presentation on gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) to colleagues should follow a logical progression from definition to management, prioritizing the most recent and highest quality evidence, such as the 2023 standards of care in diabetes 1. Begin with a clear definition of GDM and its diagnostic criteria, as outlined in the most recent guidelines. Then discuss epidemiology, highlighting the increasing prevalence and risk factors such as advanced maternal age, obesity, family history of diabetes, and previous GDM. Present the pathophysiology, emphasizing insulin resistance from placental hormones and its consequences. Cover maternal and fetal complications including preeclampsia, cesarean delivery, macrosomia, neonatal hypoglycemia, and future diabetes risk. Detail screening protocols, such as universal screening at 24-28 weeks or earlier for high-risk women, and diagnostic approaches, including the 75g OGTT and clinically appropriate nonpregnancy diagnostic criteria 1. For management, outline lifestyle modifications first, including medical nutrition therapy and moderate exercise, followed by pharmacotherapy when needed, with insulin as first-line, and metformin or glyburide as alternatives in specific situations, as recommended in the 2024 standards of care in diabetes 1. Include glucose monitoring targets, such as fasting <95 mg/dL, 1-hour postprandial <140 mg/dL, and 2-hour <120 mg/dL, and intrapartum/postpartum care. Conclude with recommendations for postpartum follow-up, including the 4-12 week postpartum 75g OGTT and long-term diabetes prevention strategies, as outlined in the most recent guidelines 1.

Some key points to consider when presenting on GDM include:

• The importance of early detection and management of GDM to minimize maternal and fetal complications
• The role of lifestyle modifications in managing GDM, including medical nutrition therapy and moderate exercise
• The use of pharmacotherapy, including insulin, metformin, and glyburide, when needed
• The importance of glucose monitoring and achieving target glucose levels to minimize complications
• The need for postpartum follow-up and long-term diabetes prevention strategies to reduce the risk of future diabetes and related complications.

Overall, a presentation on GDM should prioritize the most recent and highest quality evidence, such as the 2023 standards of care in diabetes 1, and emphasize the importance of early detection, lifestyle modifications, and pharmacotherapy in managing GDM and minimizing maternal and fetal complications.

From the Research

Presentation Structure for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)

The recommended structure for a presentation on GDM to colleagues includes:

• Definition and significance of GDM
• Pathophysiology of GDM
• Screening and diagnosis guidelines
• Management options, including lifestyle modifications and pharmacological treatments
• Complications and risks associated with GDM
• Postpartum care and follow-up

Key Components of the Presentation

• Introduction: Briefly define GDM and explain its significance and relevance to obstetric care 2, 3
• Pathophysiology: Discuss the physiological changes in pregnancy that contribute to insulin resistance and explain how GDM develops and its effects on maternal and fetal health 3, 4
• Screening and Diagnosis: Discuss current guidelines for GDM screening, including universal vs selective screening, and describe the different screening tests, such as the glucose challenge test and oral glucose tolerance test 2, 5, 6
• Management: Discuss lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, and explain pharmacological options, including insulin, metformin, and glyburide 2, 3, 6
• Complications and Risks: Discuss maternal complications, such as preeclampsia and cesarean delivery, and explain fetal risks, including macrosomia and birth trauma 5, 3, 6
• Postpartum Care: Discuss postpartum glucose screening and follow-up, and explain the importance of monitoring for future diabetes risk 2, 3, 6

Additional Considerations

• The presentation should be tailored to the audience's level of expertise and should include time for questions and discussion 2
• The structure can be adjusted based on specific needs and time constraints
• The importance of early detection and management of GDM should be emphasized throughout the presentation 2, 5, 3, 6