Technologies in the management of type 1 diabetes

Snaith, Jennifer R; Holmes‐Walker, D Jane

doi:10.5694/mja2.50946

Topics

Technology is changing the way that people with type 1 diabetes are monitoring and managing their blood glucose levels

Diabetes technologies have transformed management options in type 1 diabetes. The most notable innovations include the commercialisation of insulin pumps, advancements in glucose monitoring and the capacity for these technologies to interact. New technologies offer enhanced flexibility in insulin delivery and opportunities to improve glucose levels and enhance quality of life. Recognising these benefits, the uptake of advanced technologies in Australians with type 1 diabetes has increased. In 2018–2019, 41% of children and 26% of adults attending hospital diabetes clinics managed their type 1 diabetes with insulin pumps, and 55% of children and 13% of adults newly commenced continuous glucose monitoring (CGM).1 In this article, we provide a guide to current diabetes technologies available in Australia, describe their benefits and discuss important factors in assessing an individual’s suitability.

1 Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW
2 St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney, NSW
3 Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW
4 Westmead Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW

Correspondence: jane.holmeswalker@sydney.edu.au

Competing interests:

No relevant disclosures.

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