Gestational diabetes mellitus: a growing economic concern

Abstract

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common pregnancy complication. Recent epidemiological data have shown that GDM prevalence has been on the increase worldwide. GDM could lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes and is usually associated with higher costs for its treatment and management. Pharmacoeconomics has become a crucial component of the healthcare systems in recent years because of the steadily rising costs. Despite this, there are few pharmacoeconomic studies evaluating the expenses of pregnancies impacted by GDM. This article presents a brief introduction to pharmacoeconomics and provides awareness of the economic impact of GDM. Studies associated with health care costs of GDM were reviewed and an attempt was made to determine its global economic burden.