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by Mbali Mapholi, Registered Dietitian SA
Imagine a world where managing diabetes no longer involves painful fingerstick blood glucose testing and constant guesswork. A world where individuals with diabetes can effortlessly monitor their glucose levels, gaining unprecedented control over their condition. This dream has become a reality thanks to the remarkable advancements in sensing technology for glucose monitoring. In this article, we will delve into the science behind this sensing technology, exploring the profound impact it’s had on the lives of many people living with diabetes that I’ve worked with as a dietitian. I’ll also share a compelling story of how this technology has changed the life of my best friend living with diabetes.
Part 1: The science behind sensing technology for glucose monitoring
Before we dive into the personal story that illustrates the transformative power of this sensing technology for glucose monitoring, it’s essential to understand how these remarkable devices work.
In essence, devices offering sensing technology such as the FreeStyle Libre 2 are small, wearable sensors that provide minute-to-minute glucose readings sent to your smartphone1,2. Unlike traditional skin puncture blood sampling, which provides only a snapshot of glucose levels at a particular moment. While we celebrate the strides made by sensing technology for glucose monitoring, it’s essential to acknowledge that traditional fingerstick blood sampling still has its place, especially for those who may not have access to sensor devices.
However, it’s worth noting these traditional methods often come with compliance issues and can be quite burdensome to a person living with diabetes, making the transition to sensor technology a welcome relief for many.
Here’s how sensing technology devices for glucose monitoring work:
1. Sensor placement: The sensor is typically placed on the back of the upper arm, secured with an adhesive patch. This location offers a convenient and discreet way to monitor glucose levels.
2. Subcutaneous monitoring: The sensor contains a tiny, flexible filament that is inserted just beneath the skin’s surface. This filament, often less than a millimetre long, constantly measures the glucose concentration in the interstitial fluid.
3. Continuous data collection: The sensor allows you to view minute-to-minute glucose readings3 with the updated FreeStyle LibreLink app4, and customise glucose alarms for peace of mind5.
4. Glucose level feedback: Users can access glucose level readings, historical data, and trends directly on their devices. This information allows for timely adjustments in insulin dosing, dietary choices, and overall diabetes management.
Part 2: Impact on people living with diabetes – A Dietitian’s perspective
As a dietitian working closely with individuals in diabetes management, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the positive impact sensing technologies for glucose monitoring have on my clients. These devices have revolutionised the way we approach diabetes care, offering a host of benefits extending far beyond the convenience of painless monitoring.
Here are some key ways in which devices with sensing technology have improved the quality of life for individuals living with diabetes, as observed in my practice:
1. Personalised nutrition guidance: With continuous glucose data at the touch of a button, people living with diabetes can better understand how different foods and dietary choices affect
their glucose levels. This empowers them to make informed decisions and personalise their nutrition plans accordingly. It’s one thing to share generalised meal plans, but another entirely when they can adapt those meal/nutrition plans to suit their exacting physical needs and lifestyle requirements.
2. Reduced hypoglycemia (insulin reaction): Sensor readings show glucose trend arrows, which provide early warnings of an impending insulin reaction, allowing individuals to take prompt corrective action, such as consuming a snack or adjusting their insulin dosage. This significantly reduces the frequency and severity of hypoglycaemic events.
3. Optimised medication management: By closely monitoring glucose trends, people with diabetes can fine-tune their insulin regimens with their healthcare professional. This often leads to more precise dosing, fewer highs and lows, and improved overall glycaemic control.
4. Enhanced quality of life: The elimination of fingerstick blood glucose testing and the constant worry about glucose levels is a significant stressor relief for people with diabetes. This reduction in emotional burden contributes to an improved overall quality of life.
5. Empowerment and engagement: People with diabetes become active participants in their diabetes management journey. They’re more engaged in their care and are motivated to make positive lifestyle changes to achieve better health outcomes.
Part 3: A life transformed
To truly appreciate the impact of sensor technology for glucose monitoring, let me share with you the inspiring story of my best friend, Mpolokeng. Mpolokeng has been living with type 1 diabetes for over two decades. For most of her journey, she relied on the traditional method of fingerstick blood sampling multiple times a day to monitor her glucose levels. The constant skin piercing was not only physically painful but also emotionally draining. It felt like a never-ending battle against an invisible enemy, with the fear of low or high glucose levels constantly lurking in the background. Mpolokeng’s quality of life was severely affected, and she often found herself discouraged and overwhelmed by the demands of diabetes management.
Everything changed when Mpolokeng decided to try the FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor. The transition was nothing short of remarkable. Here are some of her own words: “The first time I used the sensor, it was like a weight lifted off my shoulders. I no longer had to endure the painful fingersticks, and I could see my glucose levels whenever I wanted. It was liberating. I felt like I finally had control over my diabetes, rather than it controlling me.” Mpolokeng’s experience is a testament to the transformative power of sensing technology for glucose monitoring. No longer tethered to the constraints of traditional monitoring, she regained her freedom and confidence in managing her condition. With the ability to track trends and make informed decisions, she achieved better glucose control, reducing the risk of complications associated with diabetes.
The evolution of sensing technology has ushered in a new era in diabetes management.
It’s shifted the paradigm from reactive, intermittent monitoring to proactive, continuous data-driven care.
As a dietitian, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless success stories among my clients who’ve embraced sensing technology. Their improved glycaemic control, reduced stress, and enhanced quality of life underscore the importance of integrating this technology into diabetes care.
The journey of diabetes management is no longer fraught with fear and uncertainty. Thanks to the advancements in sensing technology, individuals with diabetes can live life to the fullest, empowered by knowledge and equipped with the tools they need to thrive. Sensing technology has truly transformed lives, and the future of diabetes care is brighter than ever before.
Referenes:
1 60-minute warm-up required when applying the sensor.
2 Sensor is water resistant in up to 1 meter (3 feet) of water. Do not immerse longer than 30 minutes. Not to be used above 10,000 feet.
3 Glucose readings are automatically displayed in the app only when the smartphone and sensor are connected and in range.
4 The FreeStyle LibreLink app is only compatible with certain mobile devices and operating systems. Please check the website for more information about device compatibility before using the app. Use of FreeStyle LibreLink may require registration with LibreView.
5 Hilliard, M., et al. Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics. (2019): https:/doi.org/10.1089/dia.2019.0142
The information provided is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment or as a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your physician or qualified health provider regarding your condition and appropriate medical treatment. Individual symptoms, situations and circumstances may vary.
© 2024 Abbott. The sensor housing, FreeStyle, Libre, and related brand marks are marks of Abbott. Abbott Laboratories S.A. (Pty) Ltd, Abbott Place, 219 Golf Club Terrace, Constantia Kloof, 1709. Tel: (011) 858-2000. Fax: (011) 858 2137.
ADC-98035 V1 Aug 2024