Maternal conditions such as diabetes mellitus can have a profound impact on a developing foetus, with new research suggesting the condition may have long term effects on a person's cardiovascular health.
A study by Nepean Hospital and the University of Sydney researchers sought to understand how well a baby's heart works before it is born, especially if the mother has diabetes.
While it is already known that children of diabetic mothers have earlier onset of cardiac disease including heart failure and atrial fibrillation, the study aimed to determine whether this may be a consequence of fetal development in-utero.
Using echocardiography, cardiologists examined ultrasound images of women's babies' hearts in the womb, comparing those whose mothers had diabetes to those who did not.
151 pregnant women participated in the research study. 104 had existing type-1, type-2 or gestational diabetes, while the remaining 47 women were categorised as non-diabetic control.
Results revealed that fetal left and right heart function (left and right atrial strain) was impaired in babies exposed to maternal diabetes before birth, with maternal diabetes being the primary determinant of left atrial strain. A trend was also identified that suggested maternal diabetes caused a larger fetal left atrial area.
Nepean Hospital Cardiologist, and one of the lead authors of the research study, Dr Faraz Pathan says the findings highlight how early-life exposure to diabetes can significantly impact the developing heart.
"The heart is our body's lifeforce. It's an incredible organ that works tirelessly to pump blood around our body in order for it to function correctly. Our study showed that even in the earliest stages of life, one's health can impact its growth and development," says Faraz.
"The left atrium of the heart for instance is responsible for receiving blood from the lungs. This was not pumping as efficiently in mothers with diabetes."
"These early changes in atrial function could have long-term implications for the baby's heart health. While more research is needed to fully understand the consequences, it's possible that these abnormalities could increase the risk of heart problems later in life."
The findings of the study highlight the importance of prenatal care for women with diabetes. By carefully managing their blood sugar levels and working closely with their health care team, mothers can help reduce the risk of complications for both themselves and their babies.
"Further research is crucial to improving the health of mothers with diabetes during pregnancy, especially considering that 15% of pregnancies may experience diabetes. Only through continuous research and collaboration can we imagine a healthier future for mothers with diabetes and their unborn children."
Full findings from the study have been published on The International Journal of Cardiovascular Imaging website.
