This on CNN today..
(CNN) -- An experimental tool for
diabetics called the GlucoWatch
may make painful needle sticks a
thing of the past, according to a
new study.
This new device is worn like a
watch and is completely painless,
reading blood sugar levels right
through the skin.
Sixteen million Americans suffer
from diabetes. Their bodies cannot
properly regulate glucose, or blood
sugar. Many are treated with insulin
shots, while other use different
medications and special diets.
Approximately 5 million diabetics
regularly test their blood sugar.
Since diabetes can lead to
blindness, heart disease and other
complications, keeping it under
control is vital. To do this, many
diabetics must test their blood
sugars several times daily. Currently
they prick their fingers to get blood
that is then tested by a small
machine.
In a University of Colorado study of 39 diabetics, the GlucoWatch
provided glucose values that were nearly identical to those obtained using
traditional monitors.
The study results will be presented Tuesday at the American Diabetes
Association meeting in San Diego.
The device, made by Cygnus of Redwood City, California, sends small
electric currents into the skin, opening the pores and extracting a tiny
amount of glucose fluid.
The fluid is absorbed by a sensor underneath the watch. The sensor
readings are then displayed digitally on the watch. Some patients
experienced a little tingling or some skin irritation when the device was first
put on.
It is hoped that this painless testing method will encourage diabetics to test
themselves more often.
The GlucoWatch is designed to be worn continuously by the patient.
Glucose readings are taken every 20 minutes for 12 hours.
It even comes with an alarm to let patients know if their blood sugar is too
low or too high.
Cygnus has filed for approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) to market the GlucoWatch. If approved, the device could be on the
market within a year.
Powered by a AAA battery, the watchlike device is expected to sell for
about $300. This is significantly more expensive than standard monitors,
which are only about $100. The sensors on the GlucoWatch are expected
to cost about $4 and must be replaced every day. That is twice the price of
the test strips used in traditional monitors.
Doctors expect the device will be able to download information into a
physician's computer to offer more sophisticated analysis of this lifelong
disease. Patients would just be happy to get a break from the needles.
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