According to the World Health Organization (WHO), India ranks second after China in the global diabetes epidemic, with 77 million people in the region suffering from the condition. For people with diabetes, it is important to keep their blood sugar in a healthy range to prevent complications such as hyperglycaemia or hypoglycaemia. In recent years, technology has made this work easier.
From wearable glucose monitors to AI-powered health insights, recent advancements are giving patients new ways to manage blood sugar and stay healthy. Even celebs are using them to control their sugar levels. Last month, Katrina Kaif was seen wearing a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) patch.
For World Diabetes Day today, we spoke to experts to understand how technology is changing diabetes management. Let’s find out!
state-of-the-art equipment
Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and flash glucose monitoring (FGM) systems are among the most important tools to emerge in diabetes care. “Previously, the standard method was self-monitoring of blood glucose with multiple pricks daily. Now, with CGM, people can track blood sugar continuously, allowing them to take preventive action immediately,” says Dr Prabhat Ranjan Sinha, senior consultant, Aakash Healthcare. In FGM, a sensor is inserted into the skin of the upper arm to measure the interstitial glucose level. The user places a “reader” near the sensor to obtain glucose values in real time.
Smart insulin pens and next-generation pumps further empower users by automating dosing needs. According to Dr AK Jhingan, senior director, BLK-Max Super Specialty Hospital, “Smart insulin pens are especially helpful as they track doses, send reminders and help people maintain accurate records.”
Mobile Apps and Other Platforms
Many mobile apps and digital platforms enable users to track blood sugar trends, log meals, and communicate with healthcare providers in real time. Top innovations include diabetes logbook apps and automated insulin delivery apps. “These tools have been a game-changer for patients,” says Dr. Jhingan, who emphasizes that these apps lead to informed and timely decisions.
Management through Artificial Intelligence
AI-powered technology has added a new dimension to diabetes care by providing predictive insights and personalized recommendations. “AI can identify people at high risk of diabetes by analyzing lifestyle and health data,” says Dr. Sinha.
For those already diagnosed, AI algorithms can analyze large amounts of data, including glucose readings, insulin dosage, diet, and activity levels, to predict glucose trends and suggest proactive interventions. “These systems can adapt to an individual’s changing needs, which has been game-changing for diabetes management,” explains Dr. Dutta.
