Shaun T. Ranadé, MS
Nominated From: University of Washington & Carnegie Mellon University
Research Site: Kathmandu University – Dhulikhel Hospital
Research Area: Maternal & child health, Gestational diabetes, Telemedicine
Primary Mentor: Dr. Shristi Rawal
Research Project
Continuous Telemonitoring in Gestational Diabetes to Enhance Pregnancy Outcomes
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) poses significant health risks to both mothers and infants during pregnancy. Its prevalence varies based on demographics, lifestyle changes, healthcare access, and diagnostic criteria. In Nepal, as rapid urbanization leads to increased obesity rates and insulin resistance, GDM has become a growing concern. Currently, standard GDM screening practices are lacking in Nepal and the effects of COVID-19 have exacerbated the limited access to antenatal care. This study utilizes continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) combined with a mobile app and web portal for supervised telemonitoring of GDM patients. This technology application offers insights into glucose responses to various lifestyle factors. This research seeks to implement CGM telemonitoring in resource-limited settings with high compliance rates, empowering women with knowledge of how lifestyle affects healthcare outcomes. The proposed study aims to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and accuracy of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) as a diagnostic and management tool for GDM in clinical and resource-limited settings. This prospective cohort study involves pregnant women who will undergo oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT), CGM, and daily finger-prick blood glucose testing. The patients diagnosed with GDM will receive antenatal care at Dhulikhel Hospital, where CGM data can be remotely monitored, allowing timely interventions. Finally, this study can potentially provide the Nepal Ministry of Health and Population with the necessary framework for systematic GDM screening through data collection and risk indicator evaluation.
Research Significance
This study can potentially provide the Nepal Ministry of Health and Population with the necessary framework for systematic GDM screening through data collection and risk indicator evaluation.
Mentors
