Hey readers! 🌟 The diabetes tech world is buzzing with innovation this week - from groundbreaking implantable sensors that last a full year to new research showing how technology adoption is dramatically improving outcomes. Let's dive into the latest developments that are making diabetes management smarter and more convenient than ever before.
This Week's Tech Highlights 🔧
Eversense 365 CGM System has introduced a revolutionary approach to continuous glucose monitoring with a tiny sensor that lasts for an entire year. Unlike traditional CGMs that need replacement every 10-15 days, this implantable sensor is placed under the skin by a healthcare provider, featuring a removable smart transmitter that sends real-time glucose data to your mobile app. The system uses gentle silicone adhesives changed daily to minimize skin irritation and offers high accuracy with minimal false alerts. It's covered by most commercial insurance plans and Medicare, potentially reducing out-of-pocket costs significantly.
Stelo by Dexcom has launched as an over-the-counter wearable glucose biosensor for adults not on insulin. This prescription-free CGM provides 24/7 glucose monitoring for up to 15 days per sensor, helping users understand how food, exercise, and sleep affect their glucose levels. Recognized by TIME as one of 2024's Best Inventions, Stelo integrates with the Oura app and Oura Ring for a comprehensive view of metabolic health.
FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus offers 15-day continuous glucose monitoring without finger pricks. The system provides real-time glucose insights through a smartphone app, featuring optional alarms, waterproof design, and secure data sharing capabilities. – Abbott
Breakthrough T1D reports the first successful use of engineered hypoimmune islets producing insulin without immunosuppressants, marking a significant advancement toward potential cures for T1D. The organization has also published a roadmap for beta cell replacement therapies and continues to lead global efforts to improve access and early diagnosis of T1D.
Research & Clinical Advances 🔬
A recent study analyzing data from over 186,000 participants shows dramatic improvements in diabetes management from 2009 to 2023. The percentage of patients achieving glycemic control (HbA1c <7%) rose from 7% to 19% in youths and from 21% to 28% in adults with T1D. Continuous glucose monitoring use increased from 4% to 82% in youths and from 5% to 57% in adults, while insulin pump use rose significantly as well. However, disparities in technology access persist among Hispanic, non-Hispanic Black, and Medicaid-insured populations.
Mayo Clinic is conducting 71 clinical trials focused on Type 1 Diabetes, exploring insulin therapies, closed-loop delivery systems, biomarkers for early detection, and the effects of exercise and stress on glycemic control. The research also addresses complications like diabetic gastroparesis and retinopathy, while investigating patient-centered outcomes including quality of life and treatment adherence.
PubMed reports that islet autoantibody testing is becoming mainstream for early T1D detection, potentially allowing for earlier interventions and better management. The Type 1 Diabetes TrialNet Study Group's findings support the predictive power of these tests in identifying individuals at risk.
Practical Resources 📱
Breakthrough T1D's recipe collection offers carb-conscious meals with estimated carbohydrate counts to aid in diabetes management. The community-contributed recipes cover breakfast, lunch, dinner, sides, snacks, and desserts, with options ranging from low-carb frittatas (~2g carbs per serving) to Meyer Lemon Ricotta Pancakes (~12g carbs per pancake). – Kara Sweet
Everyday Health reviews 17 diabetes management apps that have been shown to improve blood sugar control and support weight loss. Categories include food tracking (Lose It!, MyFitnessPal), blood glucose monitoring (mySugr, Health2Sync), and comprehensive management tools (Glucose Buddy, One Drop). The article emphasizes choosing apps that fit individual needs and consulting healthcare professionals for guidance.
The Juicebox Podcast features an anesthesiologist and mother sharing her family's experience managing her son's type 1 diabetes while traveling across 50 countries over three years. She offers practical strategies for navigating airport security, managing supplies, and finding suitable food, emphasizing that traveling with T1D is highly doable with proper preparation.
Industry Updates 🏢
MedTech Dive reports several industry developments: Insulet promoted Eric Benjamin to COO and hired Manoj Raghunandanan as chief growth officer; Luna Health raised $23.6 million to develop a tiny insulin patch pump; Tandem Diabetes Care is monitoring a CMS payment proposal that could change Medicare reimbursement; and Dexcom raised sales expectations driven by expanded coverage for Type 2 diabetes. – Elise Reuter
DiabetesWise compares the Omnipod 5 and twiist automated insulin delivery systems. Omnipod 5 is the first FDA-approved tubeless, waterproof pump controlled via Android smartphones, while twiist is FDA-cleared for use with integrated CGMs and is the first AID system compatible with Apple Watch. Both systems offer customizable insulin delivery and are designed for discreet, active lifestyles.
Here's to continued advancements in diabetes care and technology that make life easier for everyone in our community!
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