According to the World Health Organization (WHO), India is second only to China in the global diabetes epidemic with 77 million people suffering from the disease in the region. For people with diabetes, maintaining blood sugar levels in a healthy range is critical to preventing complications such as hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. In recent years, technology has made this task easier.
Recent advances are giving patients new ways to control their blood sugar and stay healthy, from wearable glucose monitors to AI-powered health information. Even celebrities use them to control their sugar levels. Last month, Katrina Kaif was spotted wearing a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) patch.
Today, on World Diabetes Day, we spoke to experts to understand how technology is changing diabetes care. Let’s find out!
Ultra-modern devices
Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and rapid glucose monitoring (FGM) systems are among the most important tools emerging in diabetes management. “In the past, the standard method was self-monitoring of blood glucose with several injections daily. Now, with CGM, people can continuously monitor their blood sugar levels, enabling them to take preventive measures quickly,” says Dr. Prabhat Ranjan Sinha, Senior Consultant, Aakash Healthcare. In FGM, a sensor is inserted into the skin on the upper arm to measure interstitial glucose levels. The user then places the “reader” near the sensor to receive real-time glucose readings.
Next-generation smart insulin pens and pumps further empower users by automating dosing needs. According to Dr. AK Jhingan, Senior Director, BLK-MAX Super Specialty Hospital, “Smart insulin pens are particularly useful as they track doses, send reminders and help people keep accurate records.”
Mobile apps and other platforms
Several mobile apps and digital platforms allow users to track blood glucose trends, log meals, and communicate with healthcare providers in real time. Key innovations include Diabetes Logbook apps and automated insulin delivery. “These tools have changed the game for patients,” says Dr. Jingan, who emphasizes that these programs enable timely, informed decisions.
Management with the help of artificial intelligence
AI-driven technology has added a new dimension to diabetes management by offering predictive insights and personalized recommendations. “Artificial intelligence can identify people at high risk of diabetes by analyzing lifestyle and health data,” says Dr. Singha.
For those already diagnosed, AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data, including glucose readings, insulin doses, diet and activity levels, to predict glucose trends and suggest proactive measures. Dr. Dutta notes, “These systems can adapt to the changing needs of the individual, which has been important for the treatment of diabetes.”
