Insulin pumps are quickly becoming more advanced and I’m sure some of you have heard the rumors about a new one coming out that could potentially detect lows. The idea behind it is that the pump would deliver insulin like normal, you would bolus after food, but an added feature would be its ability to stop insulin delivery without you when it predicted a low blood sugar coming. That’s great. It’s a step closer to having a functioning pancreas again.
Well, there’s another very similar idea now. It’s being tested right now with a very small control group and probably won’t be available within the next ten years. With that said, it’s still an awesome idea and I hope it all works out well with the control group.
Here’s the article: Independence from diabetes
This new device would be inserted under the skin of your lower back. The way I understand it, the device is made like a thin sheet. It shows it in the video. It seems similar to the birth control method where they implant that small stick-like object under the skin in a woman’s arm and it’s replaced when the time comes. I don’t know much about those, but I have seen people with them and they don’t talk like it’s a big deal to have one. Maybe if any of you have one that could give you some perspective. I don’t. xD
It’s supposed to be able to block autoimmune cells. I’m not sure if this would ever cause any problems, but that’s what the control group and tests are for. I’m sure they could find a way to control it since the device is also supposed to allow insulin producing cells to enter the body. They obviously think it’s safe enough to test on people now, so that’s a good sign.
I didn’t see anything that told about the possible price, but the article does say that the span it could be used for is anywhere from 2-10 years. That’s a pretty big gap. I’m sure it will be narrowed down eventually. Up to 10 years is great and if it does work I’m sure improvements could be made. Maybe one day it will be capable of 20 years.
As of right now I’m not sure how well it works, but the fact that it has made it to a human trial says something.
I’m honestly surprised that I hadn’t heard more about this before.
Is this something that you might try?
apumplife 