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Continuous Glucose Monitoring: Improving Diabetes Management Across Ages

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Original Article: https://www.medscape.com/s/viewarticle/continuous-glucose-monitor-benefits-all-ages-diabetes-2024a1000fhy

Introduction

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) was introduced over 20 years ago to help people with diabetes monitor their glucose levels more easily and effectively than traditional finger-prick methods. Instead of checking blood sugar through a single test, CGM uses a small sensor to continuously monitor glucose levels, making it more convenient and safer for users. 

Benefits of CGM for Older Adult

As people with diabetes get older, their risk of severe hypoglycemia increases, and they may become less aware of low blood sugar episodes. This can be dangerous because it can lead to accidents, memory problems, or even hospitalization. CGM helps to predict and reduce hypoglycemia by providing real-time data on blood sugar levels. Doctors can use this information to adjust treatment, helping older adults avoid extreme highs and lows in blood sugar. This is important because overly aggressive blood sugar control can lead to hypoglycemia, while high blood sugar levels over time can cause complications like kidney disease or vision loss.

Study on isCGM Use in Older vs. Younger Adults

A recent study analyzed the use of CGM among adults with diabetes, dividing them into two age groups: those younger than 65 and those older than 65. The study showed that CGM was helpful for both groups, but older adults had slightly different needs. Older adults typically used CGM to prevent hypoglycemia, while younger adults used it for more intensive blood sugar control. Although both groups saw improvements in their average blood sugar levels (HbA1c), the changes were more significant in the younger group. However, older adults benefitted from better safety, spending less time in dangerous low blood sugar levels.

Conclusion

CGM has revolutionized diabetes care by offering an easier, non-invasive way to monitor glucose levels. It has proven beneficial for people of all ages, particularly older adults who are more at risk for hypoglycemia.