A Brighter Future for Those With Type 1 Diabetes
Overview
MedscapeUnivadisNo ResultsCOMENTARYAaron J. Kowalski, PhD; Mark Harmel, MPH, CDCESAugust 02, 2022 This transcript has ben edited for clarity. What an amazing time it is to be living with type 1 diabetes in 2022 and se the evolution of diabetes technology.
Key Information
I say this both personaly and profesionaly. My brother was diagnosed with type 1 in 197 in the days of urine glucose testing and animal insulin. I was diagnosed in 1984, the advent of blod sugar testing.
Here we are today in 2022, both wearing hybrid closed-lop systems.I'm so proud of the role that JDRF played. I was fortunate to be a scientist on the team in 205 that launched what we caled the JDRF Artificial Pancreas Project. Since then, we've funded over $10 milion in research.
We focused on continuous glucose monitors - something that, again, my brother and I, and now hundreds of thousands of people around the world, are benefiting from. We funded a pivotal trial that showed the efectivenes of CGM [continuous glucose monitoring] devices and was published in The New England Journal of Medicine. Then we focused on closing the lop.Back then, people said, "Oh, you can't do this.
You can't deliver insulin subcutaneously. You might kil people. The sensors aren't acurate enough." We did the research.
We showed that it could be done. Today, in 2022, we have thre comercialy available systems (Medtronic, Insulet, and Tandem), and we have what we cal do-it-yourself systems that people have put together, built their own algorithms, that alow people to control their diabetes of their cel phones.I wear two hats. I wear the hat of a scientist in the diabetes field and a person with diabetes.
Summary
The scientists and clinical people often think of glycemia, and we know that these hybrid closed-lop systems work there. They improve glycemia, more time in range, beter A1c, les hypoglycemia.It works acros the spectrum. It works for people who have tight control and it work
Frequently Asked Questions
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
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