In a nutshell
This study examined the frequency of continuous glucose monitoring use, the reasons for its use and its effectiveness.
Some background
Real-time continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a device worn by patients allowing them to view their blood glucose (sugar) levels in real-time (every few minutes). This device receives information about the blood glucose levels though a sensor placed underneath the skin and the device then displays the blood glucose levels on the screen. CGM has been shown to improve control of blood glucose levels.
Methods & findings
This study aimed to determine the various aspects of continuous glucose monitoring, including how often it is used, the reasons for its use and its ability to improve blood glucose levels. This study involved 17,317 patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) from 66 different hospitals. Participants completed a survey indicating whether they had used CGM in the previous month, how often they use CGM and whether they had discontinued CGM use in the past year. HbA1c (a measurement of average blood glucose levels over the past 3 months) and the frequency of hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) were also recorded.
This study found that 9% of participants used CGM and users of CGM were more likely to have higher education, a higher household income, private health insurance, a longer duration of diabetes and also use an insulin pump. Children who used CGM had a lower HbA1c (8.3%) compared to non-users (8.9%), while adult users of CGM also had a lower HbA1c (7.7%) compared to non-users (7.9%). Adults who used CGM more often had a lower HbA1c. Severe hypoglycemia did not occur more often in CGM users. 41% of participants had discontinued the use of CGM within 1 year.
The bottom line
This study concluded that the use of CGM in T1D patients is uncommon, but CGM is associated with a lower HbA1c, especially when used more frequently.
The fine print
Data for CGM use was obtained from patient self-reporting and the frequency of the use may therefore be influenced by patients over-reporting its use.
What’s next?
Consult your physician regarding the benefits of CGM and the options available to you.
Published By :
Diabetes Care
Date :
Jul 10, 2014
This has made the control of my T1 so much easier. My biggest concern was my blood sugar dropping while sleeping. It is no longer a concern as it alarms an wakes me . Shortly I will again be using a pump , I had many problems with low b.s. when I used the pump before . I believe the monitor is almost mandatory if using a pump . It has made the control of my type 1 diabetes so much better.