Researchers at UCLA are developing a noninvasive urine test that could help identify pregnancies at risk of gestational diabetes or preeclampsia before symptoms start.
The team is using a technology called EFIRM to look for molecular signs in a small urine sample. The researchers say the test can produce results in about an hour.
Early identification could help clinicians monitor patients more closely and consider care sooner. The test is still being developed and is not ready for routine prenatal visits.
The current study was relatively small. Larger studies with more diverse groups, further technical work and regulatory review are still needed before clinical use.
