Dr Babak Ashrafi, a GP with Superdrug Online Doctor, has shared advice on the latest diabetes technology available on the NHS. The technology for managing diabetes has evolved significantly over the past decade, with many patients now using continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) instead of traditional finger-prick tests.
Importance of Blood Sugar Monitoring
Dr Ashrafi emphasized that blood sugar monitoring is one of the most important tools in diabetes care. It helps patients understand how well their condition is controlled over time. Monitoring can be done through finger-prick testing, HbA1c blood tests, or newer technologies like CGMs. By tracking glucose levels, patients can see how food, exercise, medication, and illness affect their diabetes and make informed decisions with healthcare professionals.
What Are Continuous Glucose Monitors?
CGMs are small wearable devices that track glucose levels throughout the day and night. They provide ongoing readings and can alert users when their glucose is rising or falling, which is particularly helpful for reducing the risk of hypoglycemia. The NHS has rolled out CGMs in recent years, and many patients prefer this convenient method over occasional finger-prick checks.
Advantages of CGMs Over Finger-Prick Tests
Dr Ashrafi explained that finger-prick tests give a snapshot of blood glucose at a single point, while CGMs show trends and patterns over hours and days. However, longer-term measures like HbA1c tests remain important for an overview of average blood sugar control over several months. Together, these tools provide a complete understanding of diabetes.
Latest Features of CGMs
CGM technology is becoming more advanced. Many devices now offer phone connectivity, trend arrows, alerts for high and low glucose, data-sharing with healthcare teams or family members, and insights into overnight patterns. Some newer systems use predictive technology to warn users about potential glucose changes before they happen, which is especially useful overnight. The Express recently spoke to a patient trying a new CGM that uses artificial intelligence to forecast glucose levels.
How to Learn More About CGMs
Anyone interested in using a CGM should speak with their GP or diabetes specialist team, as eligibility for NHS-funded CGMs depends on individual circumstances. For those looking to better understand their blood sugar levels, Superdrug Online Doctor offers at-home HbA1c diabetes tests, which measure average blood glucose over two to three months. These tests can help monitor diabetes control and support conversations with healthcare professionals.
