India Needs Modern Tech for Diabetes Management – Experts Say
Revolutionizing Diabetes Management: The Rise of Continuous Glucose Monitoring and AI in India
Thiruvananthapuram, India – July 15, 2025 – As the Jothydev’s professional Education Forum Diabetes Update 2025 (JPEF 2025) concluded its three-day run in Kovalam, a resounding call echoed through the halls: the urgent need to expand access to Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) for individuals managing diabetes across India. This sentiment, underscored by leading diabetologists and international experts, signals a pivotal moment in the nation’s approach to diabetes care, highlighting the transformative potential of technology and data-driven insights in a landscape where glycemic control remains a significant challenge.
The Current Landscape: Challenges in Indian Diabetes Management
India, often dubbed the diabetes capital of the world, grapples with an epidemic of unprecedented scale. The sheer number of individuals affected, coupled with the complexities of managing the condition, presents a formidable public health challenge. While advancements in treatment are continuously emerging, their accessibility and adoption remain uneven, particularly for those in low and middle-income segments of the population.
The Insulin Gap: A Persistent Hurdle
A stark reality highlighted at JPEF 2025 was the significant gap in insulin utilization among people with Type 2 diabetes in India. Dr.Rajeev Chawla, a senior diabetologist, pointed out that despite a substantial number of individuals requiring insulin therapy, only an estimated six million currently use it. This disparity is not solely due to a lack of prescription but is deeply rooted in patient-level barriers.
Fear of Needles and Injections: The very act of injecting insulin can be a source of anxiety and discomfort for many, leading to avoidance.
Hypoglycemia Concerns: The fear of experiencing dangerously low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) is a significant deterrent, often leading to under-dosing or complete cessation of insulin.
Logistical Hassles: The daily routine of injections, managing supplies, and potential storage requirements can feel burdensome, especially for individuals with demanding lifestyles or limited support systems.
These factors contribute to a scenario where many individuals are not receiving the optimal treatment for their condition,leading to poorer long-term outcomes and increased risk of complications.
Glycemic Control: A Nation in Need of Advancement
The data presented at the conference painted a concerning picture of glycemic control across India. Dr. Jothydev Kesavadev articulated a critical observation: “More than 80% of people have levels above normal.” This statistic underscores a widespread issue where blood sugar levels consistently exceed recommended targets.
The average HbA1c – a crucial marker reflecting average blood glucose levels over the preceding two to three months – among Indian patients was found to be around 9% in a recent national study. This is considerably higher than the generally accepted target of below 7% for most individuals with diabetes, as recommended by international guidelines. An HbA1c of 9% indicates a prolonged period of hyperglycemia, which substantially elevates the risk of developing debilitating diabetes-related complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and cardiovascular system.
technological Advancements: The Dawn of a New Era
The JPEF 2025 conference placed a significant emphasis on the transformative power of technology in diabetes care. From real-time monitoring to sophisticated predictive analytics, these innovations offer a glimpse into a future where diabetes management is more personalized, proactive, and effective.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM): Beyond Fingersticks
continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems represent a paradigm shift from traditional intermittent blood glucose testing (fingersticks). These wearable devices utilize a small sensor inserted under the skin to measure glucose levels in the interstitial fluid every few minutes, providing a continuous stream of data.
Key Benefits of CGM:
Comprehensive glucose Picture: Unlike single-point fingerstick readings,CGM provides a dynamic view of glucose trends,revealing patterns,highs,and lows that might otherwise go unnoticed. This allows for a deeper understanding of how diet, exercise, stress, and medication impact blood sugar levels.
Reduced Hypoglycemia and Hyperglycemia: By offering real-time alerts for impending high or low glucose levels, CGM empowers individuals to take timely corrective actions, thereby minimizing the duration and severity of glycemic excursions. This is particularly crucial for preventing severe hypoglycemia, a major concern for many patients.
Improved HbA1c: Studies consistently show that individuals using CGM achieve better HbA1c levels compared to those relying solely on fingersticks. The wealth of data facilitates more informed treatment adjustments by both patients and their healthcare providers.
* Enhanced Quality of Life: The ability to monitor glucose without frequent fingerpricks, coupled with the reduced fear of hypoglycemia, can significantly improve a person’s quality of life