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Thanks to a world-first initiative launched by the NHS, thousands of children and adults living with type 1 diabetes in England will have access to the Hybrid Closed Loop system.
Local NHS systems will begin identifying those eligible for the Hybrid Closed Loop system, also known as an artificial pancreas.
How does does it work?
First, it monitors a person’s blood glucose. There is a sensor under the skin that automatically measures blood sugar levels. Then, the readings are sent wirelessly to a pump that calculates the amount of insulin that is needed.
So, the final step is for users to follow the reading on their phone. That option can, for example, help them by enabling them to input the precise quantities of carbohydrates consumed during meals.
That will make their lives easier because they will not have to inject themselves with insulin. On the other hand, this means the prevention of attacks like hypoglycemic and hyperglycemia. Those attacks can be life-threatening for people with type 1 diabetes.
Is it safe?
Two years ago, about 1,000 adults and children with type 1 diabetes were given a potentially life-altering ‘artificial pancreas’ as part of the first nationwide test into the effectiveness of this technology in the world. The main goal was to find out if the device tech could help people of all ages in a real-world setting in the first nationwide test of its kind in the world.
Reactions to life-changing device
“Type 1 diabetes is an easily missed diagnosis so if you are concerned about symptoms. The 4Ts going to the Toilet, passing urine more frequently, with Thirst, feeling Tired, and getting Thinner (losing weight), please come forward for support,” says Dr Clare Hambling, National Clinical Director, in the statement.
Colette Marshall, Chief Executive of Diabetes UK, said that Diabetes is a tough and relentless condition. These systems make a life-changing difference – improving both the overall health and quality of life for people with diabetes.
“This really is a landmark moment, and we’ll be working with the NHS and others to ensure a fair rollout that reaches people as quickly as possible,” she added.
According to Health Minister Andrew Stephenson, this is a great example of how they are harnessing the latest technology to make people’s lives better. They do that by improving outcomes, reducing serious complications, and making care simpler.
A patient’s word
For Gemma Lavery, 38, from Plymouth, this device allowed her to find a sense of normality. She explained that she no longer has to worry about work-related stress affecting her blood glucose levels.
“I can have a full night sleep without worrying about regular low glucose levels hindering my morning routine. I have found that my diabetes is more stable,” she added.
A 64-year-old Les Watson from West Devon. Les has been living with type one diabetes for nearly 44 years. “I now spend hardly any time interacting with the system other than at mealtimes or telling it I’m heading out to exercise.
In England, 269,095 people have type 1 diabetes. Diabetes identification and treatment cost the NHS around ?10 billion every year. To make things easier, NHS England supported the local health systems with ?2.5 million.
