Mothers who give birth to babies with low birth weight may want to monitor their childs health as they grow, as a new study is suggesting that babies that are born at a low weight have a stronger chance of developing type 2 diabetes.
According to a report published in the journal, Nature Genetics, researchers have discovered two genetic regions that influence birth weight, one of which is also associated with the development of type 2 diabetes.
Researchers analyzed more than 38,000 patients from 19 different studies and found that the gene ADCY5, a factor in causing low birth weight, is also associated with type 2 diabetes. It was found that individuals who had this gene variant had a 25 percent higher risk of developing the condition later in their lifetime.
“It was a surprise to see such strong genetic effects for a characteristic, such as birth weight, which is subject to powerful influences from so many environmental factors,” said researcher Mark McCarthy. “These discoveries provide important clues to the mechanisms responsible for the control of growth in early life and may lead us to a better understanding of how to manage growth problems during pregnancy.”
Individuals who suffer from the condition can take to treat their symptoms without worrying about the side effects that comes with some prescription medication.