Which of the following is a risk factor for screening T2DM in children?

Maternal gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) during pregnancy is a significant risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in children. When a mother experiences GDM, it can lead to a higher likelihood of insulin resistance in the child, which can persist even postnatally. This history suggests a predisposition to metabolic disorders, including T2DM, making it an important factor to consider when screening children for this condition.

Children born to mothers with GDM are also often more likely to be overweight or obese, conditions strongly associated with an increased risk for developing T2DM. Therefore, the identification of this risk through screening is crucial in early intervention and management strategies to prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.

In contrast, while factors such as family history of hypertension and low socioeconomic status can be associated with overall health risks, they do not have the same direct link to the risk for T2DM in children as maternal GDM does. Excessive physical activity, on the other hand, is beneficial for health and typically reduces the risk of developing chronic conditions like diabetes, rather than contributing to it.