study shows distinct pregnancy risks for interracial couples

A new pregnancy study looking at risk factors for interracial couples, Asian-white couples in particular, shows a unique risk profile for such couples, including a larger likelihood for gestational diabetes: Asian-white couples have distinct pregnancy risks.

The study, by researchers at the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital and Stanford University School of Medicine, found that pregnant women who are part of an Asian-white couple have an increased risk of gestational diabetes (4% incidence) compared with couples in which both partners are white (1.6%). Gestational diabetes is a known risk factor for Asian-Asian couples: an incidence rate of 5.7%. That is thought to be linked to a genetic predisposition. But the new study found that interracial couples also had an increased risk no matter which partner is Asian.

The research, published today in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, points to the need for more evaluation of health risks unique to interracial couples or people of mixed race. Now you know.