Comparative Analysis of Glucose and Calcium Profiles in Neonates Born to Diabetic Versus Non-Diabetic Mothers

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Neonates born to diabetic mothers are at increased risk of early metabolic disturbances, particularly hypoglycemia and hypocalcemia, due to fetal hyperinsulinemia and abrupt withdrawal of maternal glucose and calcium at birth. These imbalances may predispose to neonatal complications if not promptly identified and managed. Aim of the study: To compare early glucose and calcium profiles in neonates born to diabetic versus non-diabetic mothers and evaluate the association between maternal diabetes and neonatal metabolic disturbances. Methods & Materials: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh, enrolling 100 term neonates (60 born to diabetic mothers, 40 to non-diabetic mothers). Early capillary glucose was measured at 0.5, 2, 4, 6, 12, and 24 hours of life, and serum calcium was assessed at 24–48 hours. Maternal and neonatal clinical data were recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0, applying independent t-tests, Chi-square tests, and odds ratios to determine statistical significance (p<0.05). Result: Neonates of diabetic mothers had significantly lower glucose at all time points (0.5h: 39.8±12.5 vs. 52.1±13.8 mg/dL, p<0.001) and lower mean calcium levels (7.82±1.65 vs. 8.91±1.54 mg/dL, p<0.001) compared to controls. Hypoglycemia occurred in 70% vs. 28% (OR=3.61, 95% CI: 1.76–7.44, p<0.001) and hypocalcemia in 26% vs. 8% (OR=3.67, 95% CI: 1.29–10.47, p=0.01) of neonates, respectively. Conclusion: Maternal diabetes significantly increases the risk of early neonatal hypoglycemia and hypocalcemia. Early identification and management of these metabolic disturbances, along with optimized maternal glycemic control, are essential to improve neonatal outcomes.