Preventing gestational diabetes in pregnant women with obesity at high risk of gestational diabetes (UPBEAT-TIF)
Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar that develops during pregnancy. It is more common in women with a higher body mass index (BMI) and can lead to complications for both mother and baby. Usually, the NHS tests for this condition later in pregnancy, between 24 and 28 weeks. However, blood sugar changes often start much earlier. This study, based at St Thomas' Hospital in London, tests an early support plan for women between 11 and 15 weeks pregnant who are at high risk. Participants are split into three groups: standard NHS maternity care, an 8-week healthy eating and physical activity programme, or the lifestyle programme alongside a medicine called metformin. Women wear a simple sensor to monitor blood sugar and an activity tracker on their wrist. The goal is to see which approach works best to prevent diabetes and keep mothers and babies healthy.
En un coup d'œil
De quoi parle cette étude ?
Gestational diabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels rise too high during pregnancy. While it often goes away after giving birth, it can cause complications during labour, lead to larger babies, and raise the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Women who carry extra weight before pregnancy have a higher chance of developing this condition.
Under usual NHS care, women are screened for gestational diabetes in their second trimester, between weeks 24 and 28. However, doctors now believe that the body starts struggling with sugar processing much earlier. Researchers have created a screening tool to spot women at higher risk during their first routine 12-week ultrasound scan, allowing help to begin sooner.
This trial investigates whether acting early can stop gestational diabetes before it starts. It tests whether an 8-week healthy lifestyle programme—with or without a common tablet called metformin—improves daily blood sugar control compared to standard care. Metformin is a well-known medicine that helps the body process sugar more effectively. By studying these approaches, researchers hope to discover safer, earlier treatments to give babies the healthiest possible start.
Points clés
- Tests early support to prevent gestational diabetes in women with a BMI of 30 or higher.
- Open to women who are 11 to 14 weeks pregnant with a single baby.
- Compares standard NHS care against an 8-week lifestyle programme, with or without metformin tablets.
- Uses wearable sugar sensors and movement trackers to see how daily habits affect health.
- Based at St Thomas' Hospital in London and funded by the Wellcome Trust and Rosetrees Trust.
Qui peut être éligible ?
You may be eligible to join this trial if you are aged 18 or over, are expecting a single baby (not twins or triplets), and are between 11 weeks and 14 weeks plus 6 days into your pregnancy. Your body mass index (BMI) must be 30 or higher, and the study's early screening assessment must show that you are at high risk of developing gestational diabetes.
You will not be able to take part if you had diabetes before becoming pregnant, or if you have existing health conditions such as high blood pressure that requires medicine, coeliac disease, thyroid disease, or kidney problems. Women who have had weight-loss surgery in the past, or who are currently taking medicines like steroids, antipsychotics, or metformin, are also unable to join.
Cet étude pourrait-elle vous convenir ?
Répondez à ces questions rapides pour voir si vous êtes éligible. Ceci est un guide uniquement — l'équipe de recherche prend la décision finale.
- Avez-vous 18 ans ou plus ?
- Are you between 11 and 15 weeks pregnant with one baby?
- Is your body mass index (BMI) 30 or higher?
- Are you free from pre-existing diabetes or kidney problems?
- Are you free from high blood pressure that requires medication?
- Have you never had weight-loss (bariatric) surgery?
En quoi consiste la participation ?
If you take part, you will be screened between weeks 11 and 15 of your pregnancy. If you are at high risk, a computer will randomly place you into one of three groups: standard NHS care, an 8-week healthy lifestyle plan, or the lifestyle plan plus daily metformin tablets. The lifestyle plan includes practical guidance on eating balanced meals, cutting down on saturated fats, and doing gentle daily exercise. You will visit the clinic at the start and after 8 weeks. During this time, you will wear a small, painless sensor on your skin to track your blood sugar levels, wear a wristband to track your daily movement, and record what you eat. The research team will also check on you and your baby's health after you give birth.
Risques et avantages potentiels
Emplacements (1)
- St Thomas' HospitalApproximatifLondon, England
Questions fréquentes
What is metformin and is it safe during pregnancy?
Metformin is a widely used tablet that helps lower blood sugar. Doctors commonly prescribe it during pregnancy, and large studies show it is safe for both mother and baby.
Can I choose which group I join?
No. A computer puts you into a group at random. This makes sure the study is completely fair and that the results can be trusted.
Will I still see my normal midwife?
Yes. All your routine NHS antenatal appointments, scans, and midwife visits will continue as normal alongside the study.
Does wearing the glucose sensor hurt?
The sensor is applied to the skin with a tiny, flexible filament underneath. It may feel like a quick scratch when put on, but wearing it is painless and waterproof.
Where does the study take place?
The study visits take place at St Thomas' Hospital in London. You will need to travel there for your research appointments.
Comment en savoir plus
Sara White
Parlez toujours à votre médecin généraliste ou spécialiste avant de décider de participer à une étude.
Discussion
Discussion communautaire
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