Type 2 diabetes: Devices and technology

medwireNews talks to one of the pioneers of closed-loop insulin delivery, Roman Hovorka, about his algorithm, his research so far, and his plans for commercialization.

Glycated hemoglobin levels correlate strongly with continuous glucose monitoring-measured average blood glucose and hyperglycemia, but poorly with hypoglycemia, say researchers.

The d-Nav system, which calculates insulin dose adjustments according to glucose levels, can help people with type 2 diabetes achieve larger reductions in glycated hemoglobin levels than with healthcare professional support alone, shows a randomized trial in The Lancet.

The effect of sleep duration on glucose regulation and cardiometabolic risk is becoming an increasingly high-profile issue. medwireNews takes a look at the latest evidence, which shows the gravity of the problem but also offers some solutions.

Blaurock MG et al. Diabetes Ther 2018. doi: 10.1007/s13300-018-0495-0

Advisory Board member Katharine Barnard scrutinizes the opinion that clinicians should be relying on glycemic outcomes when weighing the decision to prescribe a diabetes device.

Fully closed-loop insulin delivery results in a markedly improved time in range among inpatients with type 2 diabetes receiving noncritical care, researchers have reported.

Nishimura A et al. Diabetes Ther 2018. doi: 10.1007/s13300-018-0457-6

McDonnell ME. Curr Diab Rep 2018; 18: 42. doi: 10.1007/s11892-018-1015-3

A diabetes self-management support system delivered by text message may help patients to improve their glycemic control, shows a study in The BMJ.

Editorial Board member Sanjay Kalra presents his view on the march toward greater integration of digital health technologies and how traditional approaches to diabetes management are already changing.

As the utility and availability of devices surges, so too do patient expectations. Advisory Board member Katharine Barnard provides key consultation questions to help determine your patients’ greatest needs and obstacles.

Editorial Board member Sanjay Kalra shares his pragmatic and practical suggestions on initiating, monitoring, and titrating suitable patients on U500 regular insulin.

Using a patient-centered care approach, the authors detail how to work in partnership with a patient to prevent hypoglycemia through evidence-based management of the disease and appropriate education.

Diabetes check-ups can be multifaceted and time-consuming. Editorial Board member and Family Physician, Jay Shubrook, presents his practical recommendations for making the most of your patient visits.