What is the primary risk factor for developing gestational diabetes?

• A. Age
• B. Genetics
• C. Obesity
• D. Smoking

Answer: (C)

The primary risk factor for developing gestational diabetes is obesity. This condition is characterized by insulin resistance that can occur during pregnancy, and excess body weight is a significant contributor to this phenomenon. Women who are overweight or obese prior to pregnancy have a higher likelihood of experiencing increased insulin resistance, which can lead to elevated blood glucose levels.

Obesity contributes to the development of gestational diabetes through several mechanisms, including increased inflammatory markers and alterations in fat metabolism, which can affect how the body uses insulin. Moreover, women with obesity often have other associated health conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which also increases the risk of developing diabetes during pregnancy.

While age, genetics, and smoking can influence health outcomes during pregnancy, they are not as directly correlated with the onset of gestational diabetes as obesity. Older maternal age and family history can increase the risk, but the connection between body weight and insulin sensitivity is more pronounced in the context of gestational diabetes development. Smoking does not show a direct causal relationship with gestational diabetes like obesity does. Therefore, obesity stands out as the primary risk factor in this condition.