Revolutionizing Diabetes Care: The Remarkable Journey of the GS1 Continuous Glucose Monitoring System
Differences Between BGM and CGM
BGM measures glucose in the actual blood while CGM measures glucose in the interstitial fluid. BGM involves periodic fingerstick tests to measure blood glucose levels at specific moments, providing snapshots of glucose levels at those moments. In contrast, CGM offers continuous, real-time data by using a subcutaneous sensor that measures interstitial fluid glucose levels throughout the day and night.
While BGM is valuable for immediate glucose measurement, CGM provides a dynamic and complete picture of glucose trends, offering insights into patterns and fluctuations that BGM cannot capture. Additionally, the customizable high/low glucose alerts and glucose reports sharing feature in the CGM companion app like the SIBIONICS app, ensure a more personalized and user-friendly approach to diabetes management. What’s more, the real-time CGM glucose data clearly show the impact of different foods, exercises, and medications on users’ glucose, therefore, users can make more informed adjustments to get better at glucose control.
The Limitations of BGM
For individuals living with diabetes mellitus (DM), daily monitoring of glucose levels plays a crucial role in assessing the effectiveness of their dietary choices and medical treatment. Currently, venous blood glucose, fingertip instant blood glucose monitoring, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) tests are three traditional methods available for glucose monitoring. Among them, fingertip instant blood glucose monitoring is widely adopted by diabetes patients. However, the frequent need for fingersticks and lack of continuous glucose data discourage patients from monitoring their glucose levels daily.
In light of this background, SIBIONICS set out to explore a more sustainable and dynamic glucose monitoring method. The SIBIONICS journey began with a simple yet powerful goal: to improve the lives of people living with diabetes. The GS1 CGM was developed by a dedicated team of scientists, engineers, and medical professionals who completely understood the daily struggles of diabetes management. For these innovators, it was personal. Many of them had family members or friends affected by diabetes, and they had witnessed the daily grind of finger pricks, insulin injections, and the constant anxiety of blood sugar fluctuations. They believed that a more accessible, effective, and less intrusive approach to diabetes management was not only possible but necessary.
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SIBIONICS’ Mission and Approach
The journey to create the GS1 CGM system was no walk in the park. It involved an extensive development phase, characterized by meticulous research and rigorous testing. The SIBIONICS team worked closely with leading healthcare experts, diabetes educators, and endocrinologists to ensure the product's safety, accuracy, and overall effectiveness. The main goal of the GS1 CGM system was to provide accurate, real-time monitoring of glucose levels while being as unobtrusive as possible.
One of the key breakthroughs during this phase was the design of a small, discreet sensor that could be comfortably inserted under the user's skin. This sensor worked around the clock, measuring glucose levels and transmitting this information wirelessly to a mobile app or a dedicated receiver.
The SIBIONICS team attached great importance to the CGM’s data accuracy. The more accurate the GS1 CGM’s glucose readings are, the better our users can moderate their dietary choices and lifestyles with this data. MARD(Mean Absolute Relative Difference) value is a primary indicator associated with the CGM’s accuracy. All CGM manufacturers strive to achieve a low MARD value. SIBIONICS was no exception to this. Through a suite of testing and optimizing, the SIBIONICS team was finally able to reach a MARD value of 8.83%.
Key Features of the GS1 CGM System
The GS1 CGM System boasts a wide range of features that make it a game-changer in diabetes management:
14 Days of Continuous Glucose Monitoring: The GS1 CGM's small, inconspicuous sensor offers round-the-clock glucose monitoring, eliminating the need for fingersticks, calibration, or scanning.
Maximum Data Visibility: The SIBIONICS app provides users with a clear visual representation of their glucose trends and patterns, daily glucose summaries, and AGP reports, making it easier to identify and address hypo or hyperglycemic events.
Customizable Alerts and Data Sharing: The SIBIONICS app allows users to personalize their alarm settings to stay on top of their glucose control, avoiding dangerous spikes or drops. Users can also share their daily glucose reports or AGP reports with their loved ones or healthcare professionals.
Waterproof, Compact, and Comfortable: The SIBIONICS GS1 CGM’s unobtrusive and stylish sensor has an IPX8 waterproof rating, so you can confidently wear it when showering, swimming, or in any other setting.
The GS1 CGM’s Impact on Diabetes Care
The GS1 CGM system has had a transformative impact on diabetes management. Here are some of the key aspects in which it has changed the game:
Improved Glucose Control: With real-time, continuous data, such as glucose levels, glucose trending, and time in range, users can make informed decisions about their diet, exercise, and medication, leading to better glycemic control.
Reduced Hypo and Hyperglycemic Events: The GS1 system's alerts and alarms help users respond promptly to changes in their glucose levels, preventing severe hypo or hyperglycemia.
Enhanced Quality of Life: The convenience and accuracy of the GS1 CGM system have made life easier for those living with diabetes. The burden of constant fingersticks in glucose monitoring has been lifted, allowing for more flexibility and a higher overall quality of life.
Collaboration with Healthcare Providers: The GS1 CGM system promotes seamless data sharing by patients to their healthcare teams, allowing for remote consultations and timely medical interventions. This approach also helps foster better relationships between patients and healthcare providers.
In conclusion, the GS1 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System represents a milestone in the journey of diabetes management. As technology continues to advance, the outlook for individuals living with diabetes is becoming increasingly promising. The SIBIONICS GS1 CGM system is more than just a product; it's a beacon of hope and empowerment for millions.
