Trends in Gestational Diabetes: Demographic Disparities and Public Health Implications

A national analysis shows the incidence of gestational diabetes climbed from 58 to 79 cases per 1,000 births between 2016 and 2024 — a 36% increase.

The analysis focused on first singleton pregnancies, using cases per 1,000 births as the primary endpoint and national annual trend analysis to assess direction and completeness. Rates increased across all racial and ethnic groups. The highest 2024 rates appeared among American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander populations — about 137, 131, and 126 cases per 1,000 births, respectively.

Clinically, a higher and rising baseline incidence suggests the need for local review of screening pathways and patient-education workflows. Consideration of earlier or more frequent hyperglycemia screening in pregnancy, reinforced lifestyle counseling during preconception and antenatal visits, and coordinated care pathways linking obstetrics, nutrition, and endocrinology are practical responses. Systems-level review of screening protocols and referral workflows is a concrete next step to align practice with evolving population risk.

Key Takeaways:

• Gestational diabetes incidence rose 36% from 2016–2024, reflecting a sustained national increase in pregnancy-related metabolic risk.
• Incidence rose across all racial and ethnic groups, with the highest 2024 rates in American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander populations.