Kate Gerrard
Content Manager, JDRF
With 75% of people able to identify a continuous glucose monitor, is wearable technology making type 1 diabetes a less hidden condition?
Until recently, type 1 diabetes has been an invisible condition. People with type 1 have to monitor their blood glucose levels throughout the day to stay well — and to stay alive. Type 1 needs consistent, round-the-clock monitoring which is a significant burden for someone living with or caring for someone with the condition — an aspect that is not commonly known by the general public.
Wearable technology for type 1 diabetes
In recent years, there have been huge advances in the technology available to manage type 1 diabetes. Continuous glucose monitors (CGM) and flash glucose monitors measure glucose levels in real time, and insulin pumps deliver insulin into the body 24/7.
Hybrid closed-loop systems, which use an algorithm to take blood glucose readings and dispense insulin automatically, are also set to become more mainstream in the near future.
Type 1 needs consistent, round-the-clock monitoring which is a significant burden for someone living with or caring for someone with the condition.
Coming out into the open with type 1
Before the advent of type 1 technology, seeing someone inject insulin or do a blood test with a finger-pricker were the only indications that someone had type 1 — unless they verbally disclosed it. CGM, flash and insulin pumps are worn on the body and, unlike insulin pens or finger prickers that are kept in a case or bag until they are needed, these devices are on show much of the time.
Growing exposure to type 1 diabetes
Our research at JDRF found that three-quarters of the general public were able to correctly identify a CGM, which is worn on the upper arm. We have seen celebrities with type 1 proudly wearing tech; most notably, Lila Moss showing her insulin pump on the catwalk and at the Met Gala.
This openness about how type 1 is managed is building an awareness of the intricacies and intensity of type 1 management. It is a huge step forward in allowing people with type 1 to be open about their condition.
Making sure people have access to diabetes tech
However, there is still a way to go. We need to continue to raise awareness of type 1 diabetes and work to ensure everyone who needs this life-changing tech has access to it. This is integral to our mission at JDRF, and we will keep working to broaden access to technology across the four nations of the UK.
