The recent study titled "Diabetes during pregnancy among Métis people in Alberta: a retrospective cohort study" sheds light on the significant disparities in diabetes prevalence and outcomes between Métis and non-Métis pregnancies. This research provides crucial insights that practitioners can use to enhance care for Métis pregnant individuals, addressing both physiological and cultural dimensions of health.
The Study's Key Findings
The study analyzed data from 7902 Métis and 471,886 non-Métis births in Alberta between 2006 and 2016. It found that Métis pregnancies had a higher prevalence of both pre-existing diabetes (1.7% vs. 1.1%) and gestational diabetes (6.3% vs. 5.4%) compared to their non-Métis counterparts. After adjusting for various factors such as maternal age, weight, and social deprivation, the odds of pre-existing diabetes were 1.72 times higher among Métis pregnancies, while the odds of gestational diabetes were 1.30 times higher.
Métis pregnancies with pre-existing diabetes also showed nearly three times the odds of developing preeclampsia compared to non-Métis pregnancies. Furthermore, those with gestational diabetes had a 48% higher likelihood of large-for-gestational-age infants.
Implications for Practitioners
The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions that address both medical and cultural needs. Here are some strategies practitioners can consider:
- Culturally Sensitive Care: Understanding the historical and ongoing impacts of colonization on Métis communities is crucial. Practitioners should incorporate Métis perspectives into care plans, recognizing traditional practices and values.
- Holistic Health Approaches: Encourage holistic health strategies that include traditional foodways and lifestyle practices. This not only promotes physical health but also strengthens cultural identity.
- Community Engagement: Collaborate with Métis communities to develop culturally relevant health education programs that empower individuals with knowledge about managing diabetes during pregnancy.
- Addressing Social Determinants: Work towards mitigating social determinants of health such as economic barriers and housing insecurity that disproportionately affect Métis populations.
The Need for Further Research
This study highlights gaps in current research regarding Indigenous perinatal health, particularly among the Métis population. Practitioners are encouraged to advocate for further studies that explore the unique challenges faced by Métis pregnant individuals, ensuring that future healthcare strategies are informed by comprehensive data.
Diabetes during pregnancy among Métis people in Alberta: a retrospective cohort study
