My daughter is almost 13. Could you please tell me if she can expect inhaled insulin and the glucose watch to be available in the coming year? Also, I have read about an internal pump that is now to being used.

The GlucoWatch monitor will go to the FDA for final approval in June this year [1999] and it is expected that it may be available early next year. The present version is a little cumbersome for a child; but it works well when worn on the leg.

Inhaled insulin is still subject to clinical trials and even though initial evaluations have been encouraging, more work is needed in young people and especially in regard to long term respiratory complications.

An indwelling artificial pancreas is at least ten years away; but there is a prospect for a somewhat earlier combination of pump and glucose sensor; MiniMed seem to be in the lead here.

DOB