Diagnostic criteria play a critical role in how clinicians detect early signs of diabetes risk. Findings from a study presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) 2025 reveal that the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) 2024 thresholds significantly alter postpartum glucose assessments in women with prior gestational diabetes (GDM).

The analysis included 1,217 women with GDM, reassessed in the first postpartum year. Using the IDF 2024 definition—based on 1-hour post-load plasma glucose—28.4% of women were reclassified compared with the Expert Committee 2003/American Diabetes Association 2004 criteria. 39% compared with the World Health Organization 1999 definition. In both cases, the majority of shifts indicated a worsening glucose status. Overall, dysglycemia rates nearly doubled, rising to 48.9% from 29.1% with EC2003/ADA2004 and from 17.4% with WHO1999.

Predictive factors for reclassification included family history of diabetes, autoimmunity, and early pregnancy glucose values, but none strongly explained the changes. Applying IDF 2024 criteria uncovers hidden metabolic risk, supporting earlier detection and intervention after GDM.