DIABETES-INDUCED MISCARRIAGE AND STILLBIRTHS IN SOUTH ASIAN WOMEN

That this House recognises that South Asian women have over twice the risk of losing a baby in the early stages of pregnancy, compared to European women, due to complications caused by type 2 diabetes; notes that poor social conditions, language barriers and an unhealthy diet all contribute to these poor pregnancy outcomes; recognises that those of Asian background are up to six times more likely to develop diabetes and that diabetes affects this community five to 10 years earlier than the general population; understands insulin, which can provide a solution to many of the problems associated with diabetes during pregnancy, unfortunately carries a stigma within the South Asian community; congratulates local initiatives such as the Apnee Sehat social enterprise which has developed a targeted educational DVD to provide guidance and practical information for pregnant women; commends such educational resources being tailored to raise health risk awareness in South Asian communities and promoting lifestyle changes to prevent this disease; and urges the Department of Health to use this beacon DVD as a best practice tool and calls for this to be made available to primary care trusts across the UK.