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Researchers test new device to monitor blood sugar levels

Category: Diabetes

One of the most difficult parts of living with type 1 diabetes is the need for regular blood testing to measure glucose levels. However, a team of researchers from the University of Virginia is currently testing a device that could make checking blood sugar levels significantly easier.

The device works in conjunction with wearable insulin pumps. Rather than forcing the patient to prick their finger to get a blood sample, the monitor automatically tests glucose levels in blood and tracks blood sugar levels. This cuts down on the number of times diabetics must test their blood each day.

The first user of the device, a 40-year-old man with type 1 diabetes from Charlottesville, Virginia, said that he was able to reduce the number of times he had to self-administer blood tests. This has enabled him to spend less time thinking about his condition each day, which results in less worry and more peace of mind.

Additionally, the researchers hope that it will help diabetics manage their blood sugar levels more effectively. By automating much of the work that goes into checking glucose levels, they feel that the device will remove much of the burden associated with self care.