The International Diabetes Federation estimates one in 10 adults will be living with diabetes by 2040. And now, technology is advancing towards an easier way to monitor glucose, revolutionising life for many people living with diabetes and freeing them from needing uncomfortable finger prick tests throughout the day[ii].
An innovation called FreeStyle Libre uses a small sensor to monitor glucose levels continuously[iii] day and night.
Instead of a routine finger prick, users simply swipe their phone using the FreeStyle LibreLink app or FreeStyle Libre reader over the sensor for a painless, one-second scan. Each scan provides a current glucose reading, a trend arrow, and an eight-hour history.
The FreeStyle Libre sensor is small and discreet, which is simply placed on the back of your upper arm, where it can stay on for up to 14 days[iv].
For Geraldine, 71, the Freestyle Libre offered a new way to manage her Type 1 diabetes.
“I became a Type 1 [diabetic] 49 years ago at age 22. In those early years, testing blood sugar readings were a hit and miss affair.
“My life was a little more complicated due to the ‘brittleness’ of my Type 1, the need for constant testing and the privacy needed to go through the process.
“My health is really good now due to good medical support, exercise and the advances in research and education. Nevertheless, having to prick my fingers to get blood for testing at least 10 times daily has caused so much scar tissue on my fingers.
“It was suggested I try the FreeStyle Libre System. I had no hesitation in getting a reader and sensor and found the ease, privacy and accuracy of testing painlessly gave me a new way to manage my type 1 and I can immediately track my levels whether I am at home, travelling or in a public situation where I was unable to test before.
“It has given me a new lease of life and confidence in the continuing advancement in management of this condition.”
Life changing features for outdoor activities
The FreeStyle Libre is also water-resistant and can be worn while bathing, showering, swimming and exercising.[v]
Says Erin: “I have had this condition for 22 years, having been diagnosed at 13… I have tried many different meters throughout this time. The FreeStyle Libre has definitely made my sugar control easier to manage.
“We are a large motorbike loving family. We spend hours out in the bush riding. Before using the Freestyle Libre I would check my sugars before we went out for a ride and when I came back. It wasn't possible to carry my other meter around due to risk of damaging it…
“I would run my sugar levels a little higher to reduce the risk of hypos. Doing this alone is not ideal. Since using the sensor I have found it has made taking part in bike riding and various other activities so much easier. I can better control my sugars throughout the ride and it is so much easier to check my BGL [blood glucose levels] as it’s only a simple scan and I can treat accordingly.
“Also having the one machine without having to carry strips, lancets etc, I can carry the meter is a small reinforced case, so the risk of damage is almost non-existent. In all my sugars are better controlled and overall HBA1C is improving. It’s just another helpful step in reducing the burden that this condition has on my daily life.”
Long-term benefits
When worn over time, the FreesStyle Libre can also help users see patterns in their glucose levels. For example, they may notice they are stabilising, or trending up or down. Those using FreesStyle Libre have shown a better management of glucose levels, and it may also help doctors modify diabetes treatment plans.
While glucose management may be complex, it doesn’t need to be in the future. To find out if the smart tech FreeStyle Libre is suitable for you or for more information, click here.
For a limited time, FreeStyle Libre is offering new users their first month FREE when you sign up for a Subscription Starter Pack. That’s two sensors per month. No upfront costs. No lock-in contracts. Cancel anytime. Sign up on ScanToCheck.com.au today!
[i] Data on file, Abbott Diabetes Care, Inc.
[ii] Scanning the sensor to obtain glucose value does not require lancets. A glucose test using a blood glucose meter is required during rapidly changing glucose, hypoglycaemia or impending hypoglycaemia or when your symptoms do not match the system reading.
[iii] A scan every 8 hours is required to capture all the results.
[iv] Data on file, Abbott Diabetes Care, Inc.
[v] Sensor is water resistant in up to 1 metre (3 feet) of water. Do not immerse longer than 30 minutes.
This is a paid advertorial brought to you by Freestyle Libre.
