Diabetes Technologies and Their Role in Diabetes Management

Abstract

The 1993 Diabetes Complications and Control Trial (DCCT) showed that controlling blood glucose prevents and delays the progression of long term complications of diabetes. New diabetes technologies can make control of diabetes possible and safer. This paper reviews these technologies used to monitor blood glucose, administer insulin and evaluate effectiveness of therapy. Self-monitoring of blood glucose has been a standard of care for several decades. Today, patients and practitioners can gain great benefit from data that can be provided by using Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM). Current physiologic insulin therapy regimens have improved blood glucose control capabilities. Insulin therapy devices; including pens and pumps are reviewed. Advantages of insulin pump therapy and features of the latest ‘smart’ pumps are described. Children with diabetes, and their families, have many challenges as well as many opportunities to employ new technologies in diabetes management plans. The ability of school and care givers to support children can impact the overall success of any diabetes therapy regimen.