National Birth Defects Prevention Month sounds diabetes alert for women

  • January 20, 2010
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The Holmes County Health District is joining more than 350 members of the National Birth Defects Prevention Network (NBDPN) to alert women of childbearing age about the critical link between diabetes and increased risk for birth defects. January is National Birth Defects Prevention Month, and this year the Holmes County Health District is focusing on addressing diabetes among women of childbearing age. “All types of diabetes, not just gestational, have been linked to birth defects when the disease is not carefully controlled,” said Beth Crone, RN. The prevalence of diabetes in women of childbearing age has doubled in the last decade, affecting 1.3 million nationwide and approximately. Of Ohio women recently giving birth, approximately 2.8 percent had pre-existing diabetes and another 9.5 percent of the same women developed gestational diabetes. Although diabetes has been identified as a public health concern, the general public is unaware of the complications that uncontrolled diabetes can have on both the pregnant woman and her baby. Studies have demonstrated that the key to a healthy pregnancy for women with diabetes is keeping blood glucose in target range - both before and during pregnancy. Babies born to women with diabetes, especially women with poor diabetes control, are at greater risk for birth defects. “Small steps like visiting a health care provider before pregnancy and taking a multivitamin everyday can make a big difference,” said Dr. D.J. McFadden, Holmes County Health Commissioner. The National Birth Defects Prevention Network is working with health care providers around the country to encourage diabetes prevention and control for the over 60 million women in the U.S. of childbearing age. The Holmes County Health District is participating in National Birth Defects Prevention Month. “We are excited to be part of this national movement. Through our efforts across the country we reach millions of women and their families with vital prevention information,” said Beth Crone. Women can take other steps in their everyday lives to maintain good health such as having regular health care check ups and learning about family history and genetic risks. To learn more, contact the Holmes County Health District at 330-674-5035.


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