Hey readers! 👋
Welcome back to another week in the T1D tech universe. This week's lineup is packed with updates across the CGM and AID landscape, from systems that last a full year to expanding eligibility guidelines, plus some encouraging research on how well older adults handle these tools. Let's plug in. 🔌
📱 This Week's Highlights
New tech for managing type 1 diabetes is effective for older adults - A Washington State University study published in NEJM Evidence confirms that automated insulin delivery systems are safe and effective for adults aged 65 and older with T1D, including those with mild cognitive impairment. – Washington State University
This one matters. There's a persistent assumption that diabetes tech is "too complicated" for older adults, but the data tells a different story. In the study's randomized crossover design with 78 participants, the hybrid closed-loop system achieved 74% time in range, compared to 66% for a non-automated pump. Both AID approaches reduced time spent in dangerously low blood sugar.
"There's a stereotype that technology is harder for older adults, but they did quite well."
The researchers do note that onboarding took more time and effort, so providers should plan for extra support upfront. But the takeaway is clear: age alone shouldn't be a barrier to accessing AID technology.
Expanding the Field: Who Now Qualifies for CGM, AID, and Continuous Ketone Monitoring? - Pharmacy Times breaks down how eligibility for CGM and AID is broadening well beyond traditional indications, with continuous ketone monitoring expected around 2026. – Pharmacy Times
This is a useful overview for anyone wondering whether they or a family member might now qualify for technology they previously couldn't access. New AID guidelines recommend starting automated delivery when patients on basal insulin aren't meeting goals and mealtime insulin is being considered. And continuous ketone monitoring could open the door to safer SGLT2 inhibitor use in T1D, which would be a welcome addition to the toolkit.
⚙️ AID Systems: What's New
Discover twiist - The twiist AID system brings some distinctive features to the table, including iiSure sound-wave technology that measures the actual volume of insulin delivered at every dose and can detect blockages faster. – twiist
What stands out here is the personalization angle. Pre-meal and activity presets, a wide glucose target range (87-180 mg/dL), and the ability to revise carb entries after the fact all address real daily frustrations. The system runs on the Loop algorithm and cites up to a 90% reduction in severe lows in real-world use. Worth watching as it enters more markets.
"It wasn't until I tried twiist that I realized it wasn't just a way to get insulin, it was a completely different lifestyle."
About Omnipod 5 - Omnipod 5 continues expanding its Canadian availability as the first tubeless AID system, integrating with Dexcom G6 and G7 sensors for ages 2 and up. – Omnipod
MiniMed 780G System - Medtronic's MiniMed 780G reports real-world results of 80% time in range with recommended settings and 91% overnight TIR, featuring Meal Detection technology for automatic correction doses. – MiniMed
📊 CGM Landscape
Eversense 365 - The one-year implantable CGM continues to carve out its niche for people who want to minimize sensor changes, with a single placement lasting 365 days and pricing as low as $199 for the full year. – Eversense
The appeal here is obvious for anyone tired of weekly or biweekly sensor swaps. The removable smart transmitter means you can take it off for swimming or special occasions without "wasting" a sensor. Virtually no compression lows during sleep is another practical benefit that daily CGM users will appreciate.
Dexcom G7 and Stelo Glucose Biosensor - Dexcom positions its G7 system as best-in-class in accuracy for T1D, T2D, and gestational diabetes, with many insured users paying $0 per month. – Dexcom
🧪 Research Worth Knowing
Telemedicine for New-Onset Diabetes Education in Youth - A retrospective study found that hybrid telemedicine education for newly diagnosed youth with T1D produced similar A1C outcomes and healthcare utilization compared to fully in-person programs. – PubMed
"New-onset DSME via telemedicine is a reasonable alternative to in-person education."
This is practical news for families who live far from specialized diabetes centers. The hybrid group actually had 89% higher odds of completing visits via telemedicine after adjusting for distance, suggesting that offering virtual options doesn't just match in-person care, it may improve access and follow-through.
Clinical trial for teens shows improved health outcomes for T1D - The ATTEMPT study found that adolescents receiving dapagliflozin alongside insulin showed improved blood sugar control, better kidney function, and reduced weight gain. – SickKids
Teens are notoriously underrepresented in clinical trials, so it's encouraging to see a study designed specifically for the 12-18 age group. The findings will feed into the EVERYONE study examining how individual factors like genetics, metabolism, and immune response affect treatment outcomes.
🎧 From the Community
Juicebox Podcast #1857: Jersey Represent - Naomi, an adult-diagnosed LADA veteran and breast cancer survivor, shares how cancer reframed her relationship with diabetes numbers and her strategies for staying active. – Juicebox Podcast
🔬 Quick Hits
Nutrisense "Bring Your Own Sensor" - Connect your existing CGM to Nutrisense's app for meal scoring, dietitian coaching, and integration with Apple Health, Fitbit, and Oura Ring. – Nutrisense
Early childhood screening for T1D - A JAMA study of 220,000+ children found that most who developed clinical T1D had no family history, strengthening the case for general population screening. – Reuters
TrialNet Pathway to Prevention - If you have a relative with T1D, TrialNet's free screening can detect risk years before symptoms appear. – TrialNet
That's your week in T1D tech and apps. Whether you're evaluating a new AID system, curious about longer-lasting CGMs, or just trying to keep up with the evolving landscape, we hope this helps you stay informed and empowered.
Have questions, thoughts, or a story to share? Hit reply - we'd love to hear from you. 💬
Made with ❤️ by Data Drift Press