GLUCOSE MONITOR : WHICH TECHNOLOGY TO CHOOSE?

GLUCOSE METERS, THE TRADITIONAL METHOD

Glucose meters have evolved over the years and are now smaller and easier to use. They can store readings in the device’s memory and track blood sugar trends. Some can even be paired with your smartphone via an app that lets you add notes to provide context for your readings and help make them easier to interpret. Most glucose meters also offer an option to produce reports to help interpret glucose readings. However, the amount of data is limited, since the user only measures their blood sugar levels a few times a day.

CGM, THE NEW KID ON THE BLOCK

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) appeared on the scene in the early 2000s. There are currently two types of CGM available:

• Intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM) and
• Real-time continuous glucose monitoring (rtCGM)

Both types of CGM use a sensor fixed to the surface of the skin to measure blood sugar levels in the interstitial fluid (around the cells under the skin). An applicator is used to apply   the sensor to the arm or abdomen, depending on the device, pushing the tiny wire it contains through the skin and into the interstitial fluid. The sensor remains in place for 10 to 14 days, depending on the product, allowing it to continuously monitor glucose levels in the interstitial fluid. The sensor records the readings, which are then transferred to a display device on which the person can see their glucose level.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ISCGM AND RTCGM?

On the other hand, with rtCGM (Real-Time Continuous Glucose Monitoring), data is automatically transmitted to the receiver without any user intervention, as the sensor is connected to a transmitter. In most cases, a smartphone serves as the receiver. However, it is also possible to obtain a dedicated receiver from the manufacturer.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF CGM COMPARED TO A TRADITIONAL GLUCOSE METER?

Traditional glucose meters provide a single data point, offering a snapshot of your blood sugar levels at a specific moment in the day. However, this momentary reading may not reflect the full picture, as your glucose levels can fluctuate throughout the day.

Continuous glucose monitoring (both intermittently scanned and real-time) provides a comprehensive view by continuously tracking glucose levels. The data is presented in reports as curves, which illustrate how your glucose levels change over time. These curves are a valuable tool for understanding how medication, food consumption, or physical activity influence your glucose levels. They make it easier to make informed decisions to optimize your treatment and lifestyle.

CGM systems are equipped with alarms and alerts that can activate when blood sugar levels become dangerously low or drop suddenly, warning you of potential hypoglycemia risk. This feature enables you to take swift action to prevent complications. In contrast, traditional glucose meters can only provide a single reading at the time of measurement.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF CGM COMPARED TO A TRADITIONAL GLUCOSE METER?

Glucose meters provide a momentary snapshot of your blood sugar levels at a specific time of day. However, they may not capture the full spectrum of your glucose fluctuations, as levels can vary significantly throughout the day.

Continuous glucose monitoring (both intermittently scanned and real-time) offers a comprehensive overview by continuously tracking glucose levels. Data is presented in reports as curves, providing a visual representation of how glucose levels change over the course of the day. These curves are instrumental in understanding how medication and other factors, such as food intake or physical activity, influence glucose levels, facilitating better decision-making for treatment and lifestyle adjustments.

CGM systems include alarms and alerts that activate when blood sugar drops dangerously low or experiences sudden declines. They serve as early warning signals for potential hypoglycemia risk, prompting you to take immediate corrective action to prevent complications. In contrast, traditional glucose meters are limited to checking blood sugar levels at the moment of measurement.

WHO SHOULD MONITOR THEIR BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS?

Individuals living with diabetes should engage in regular blood glucose monitoring to ensure the effectiveness of their treatment, maintain optimal disease management, and mitigate the risk of complications.

The frequency of monitoring varies significantly based on diabetes type and treatment approach. For instance, individuals with type 2 diabetes at low risk of hypoglycemia may not require daily blood glucose testing. Conversely, those with type 1 diabetes who administer multiple daily insulin injections often need to monitor their blood glucose multiple times per day.

Some individuals may receive recommendations from their healthcare provider to monitor glucose levels more frequently. This includes individuals prone to hypoglycemic episodes, pregnant individuals, or those taking medications that could impact their glucose metabolism.

HOW DO I CHOOSE THE BEST SYSTEM FOR ME?

Continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGS) are primarily recommended for individuals who require frequent glucose level monitoring due to insulin injections. Since these devices can be costly, provincial insurance plans typically provide coverage to eligible individuals meeting specific criteria. Private insurance policies may offer varying degrees of coverage for CGS, so it’s advisable to consult with your insurer or pharmacist to obtain detailed information.

For individuals with diabetes not utilizing insulin injections, conventional glucose meters are typically the preferred choice. When selecting a device, it’s essential to consider various factors like device features (e.g., report types, language options, smartphone compatibility) and usability aspects (e.g., font size, screen brightness, ease of handling test strips). Your pharmacist can assist you in selecting the most suitable device to meet your specific requirements. The expenses for test strips are generally covered by prescription drug insurance plans, with certain limitations depending on the treatment regimen.