04Apr2025D A groundbreaking study on Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) and its impact on newborn health has been boosted thanks to Telet... A groundbreaking study on Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) and its impact on newborn health has been boosted thanks to Telethon funding. The study conducted at King Edward Memorial Hospital and titled The SWEET Mum + Baby Study, is the most comprehensive of its kind in WA. It will compare outcomes for babies born to mothers with diagnosed GDM, those who tested negative, and those who declined screening. GDM affects one in six pregnancies in Australia, with cases tripling over the past decade. Additionally, there is a growing clinical concern over an increasing number of mothers opting out of GDM screening. Infants born to mothers with GDM face higher risks of preterm birth, low birth weight, and respiratory distress syndrome, and long-term health issues such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The study’s lead investigator Associate Professor Zoe Bradfield (pictured) - who has a joint appointment between Curtin University and King Edward Memorial Hospital, is President of the Australian College of Midwives, and is a member of the Women and Infants Research Foundation Scientific Committee - said the urgent need for this study is underscored by the rapid rise in GDM cases across Australia. “GDM is the fastest-growing type of diabetes in Australia, and we need better strategies to support mothers and their babies. Understanding the reasons and impact of declining screening is crucial for improving care,” Associate Professor Bradfield said. The research aims to explore perinatal outcomes for babies born to women diagnosed with GDM and for those who declined GDM screening over the past five years in WA’s largest maternity service. It will also explore the experiences of mothers with GDM and the observed health outcomes for their newborns, while assessing the long-term implications of declining GDM screening on mother-baby health, feeding practices, and future vulnerability to chronic conditions. This study will not only shed light on the consequences of declining GDM screening but also pave the way for improved antenatal screening, care and early intervention strategies. “By identifying risk factors and advocating for more effective screening methods, the research will contribute to enhanced healthcare policies, clinical guidelines, and public awareness campaigns about the importance of prevention and management of GDM,” said Associate Professor Bradfield. “This will empower mothers and healthcare providers to participate in informed decision making and take proactive steps in ensuring the health of both the mother and child, ultimately reducing the incidence of GDM-related complications. “Essentially, our findings will help optimise the health of at-risk mothers and babies ensuring they receive the best possible start in life.” The Telethon grant for this research project will be administered through the Women and Infants Research Foundation - one of Australia’s premier medical research institutes, dedicated to advancing the health and wellbeing of women and babies. The Foundation is proud to be a beneficiary of this funding and thanks the Channel 7 Telethon Trust for their ongoing support of life-changing research. For close to 50 years, the Women and Infants Research Foundation has contributed to significant advancements in clinical practices and better health outcomes for women and babies across Australia and beyond. Read about The reality of gestational diabetes: Rihanna's journey and the need for more research here SHARE < Back To Listing