September 13, 2004
Blood Tests and Insulin Injections, Research: Other Research
Question from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada:
We find that the biggest challenge in maintaining good diabetic health is regular blood sugar testing. We know how important it is to test but, we find the expense to be difficult to deal with. Do you know if any of the non-invasive devices to measure blood sugars are close to being commercially available? How have the clinical trials gone to prove there effectiveness, both in the US and in Europe? We would welcome this technology as a way to keep diabetics sugars levels within the normal range.
Also, have you heard of the contact lens that is being developed, in Pittsburgh, to measure glucose levels?
Answer:
At present (September 2004), there are no truly non-invasive glucose sensors available. There are many companies working on continuous sensors that are invasive to one degree or another. One is before the FDA now (Abbott’s Navigator). Others are sure to follow.
The contact lens you mention was presented by Ciba at the 2001 Scientific Sessions of the ADA, held in Philadelphia in June 2001. We have two images of their poster: one and two.
I am unaware of any commercial development of this product.
JSH
