Washingtin, DC--Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) and Congressman Michael Burgess (R-TX-26) have introduced the Gestational Diabetes Act of 2010 (GEDI-H.R. 5354), Thursday in an effort to lower the incidence of gestational diabetes and prevent affected women and their children from later developing Type 2 diabetes.

“Over the last 15 years, the number of Americans with diabetes has doubled to over 20 million living with the disease. Newborns should not be added to that list. By combating gestational diabetes we can protect pregnant women and reduce the risks that their children will come into this world with diabetes,” said Rep. Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Health, and primary author of the legislation. “The statistics surrounding diabetes are staggering, but we must always remember there is a human face behind every number. And a growing number of children’s faces. This legislation is an important part of the effort to prevent others from suffering the effects of diabetes.”

Rep. Burgess said, “During my 25-year medical practice as an obstetrician I saw far too many expectant mothers and newborn babies affected by gestational diabetes. This is a preventable disease, but it has not been paid enough attention and we should wait no longer to act. The statistics speak for themselves – mothers diagnosed with gestational diabetes are more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes, and their children are at an increased risk not only for diabetes but other pre-natal complications as well. This bill will improve detection and lead to more effective preventative measures that will reduce clinical costs for the patients as well as the states.”

Gestational diabetes affects between 2-5 percent of pregnant women, approximately 135,000 each year, and occurs in women who weren’t diabetic but have high blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes usually occurs late in the term during weeks 24-28, and usually goes away after pregnancy. However, if untreated, it could have significant impacts on the mother and her children as they have higher risks of developing Type 2 diabetes among other potential complications.

"The American Diabetes Association applauds Representatives Engel and Burgess for their leadership on this legislation." said Nash Childs, PE, Chair of the Board, American Diabetes Association. "There needs to be greater awareness among health care providers and women on how to prevent and treat gestational diabetes, and this bill is a step in the right direction."

The increase in obesity in the United States has raised the prevalence of diabetes, but the risks attached to gestational diabetes often come from genetics, ethnicity and maternal age. The rates of occurrence are higher among African-American, Hispanic, Asian and Native American women. Current treatments are focused on diet and exercise, but there is disagreement as to the degree and effectiveness. There is also an insufficient system of monitoring.

The legislation would create a Research Advisory Committee, headed by the Centers for Disease Control, and consisting of representatives from federal agencies and health organizations. It will develop research projects to expand and enhance monitoring by standardizing procedures for more accurate data collection and diagnosis. The legislation also provides for methods to track afflicted mothers to better develop prevention methods.

The legislation also provides grants to organizations and agencies to expand community-based activities, help State-based health programs with prevention, and train health providers to treat the condition.

Rep. Engel added, “The fight against diabetes is ongoing and one which needs constant attention. We cannot rest because the disease never does. By continuing to develop ways to identify, treat and prevent we can move continually closer to the eventual goal – finding a cure.”

The legislation was referred to the Energy & Commerce Committee.