More than 100,000 type 1 diabetics could be offered what has been dubbed “the closest thing to a working pancreas” to help them manage their blood sugar levels more effectively.
Following years of research and trials, medical experts said the technology was successful in improving quality of life and mitigating the chances of long-term complications such as blindness, kidney disease and amputations.
How does it work?
The sensor, which is attached to the user under the skin, sends real-time glucose updates to their insulin pump. From here, the pump works out whether the individual needs insulin and delivers it accordingly.
Why is it groundbreaking?
Currently, those living with the condition have to monitor their blood sugar themselves via regular finger pricks or sensors and then work out how much insulin or glucose is required.
This is an arduous process which involves counting carbohydrates before every meal and adjusting insulin ratios. On top of this, there is the constant worry of how exercise, caffeine and stress levels might disrupt glucose levels.
Hence, the level of freedom this new system would provide for type 1 diabetics is unprecedented.
When will it be available?
The National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) said the technology will first be offered to those struggling to keep their glucose in safe range, as well as pregnant diabetics. This could be up to 105,000 people in the UK alone.
However, talks over making the treatment a “fair” price for taxpayers are still ongoing. It would cost around £6,000 a year for the artificial pancreas tech to be available on the NHS.
A boy from Worcester, who has been using the device for two years now, is already seeing better blood sugar control as a result.
Hilary Nathan, policy director at JDRF, the type 1 diabetes charity said the diabetic equipment was "a game-changing treatment at the forefront of health technology and artificial intelligence".
MCM Medical is delighted to see such exciting progress for the diabetic community and as always, we celebrate our industry for all the amazing work it does to improve lives.
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