Three European Retrospective Real-World Chart Review Studies to Determine the Effectiveness of Flash Glucose Monitoring on HbA1c in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes

Practical Considerations for Using Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Patients with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is the most prevalent metabolic complication during pregnancy. GDM is associated with adverse perinatal, neonatal, and long-term health consequences. Studies have demonstrated that the use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) reduces the incidence of maternal and neonatal complications in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes. Although the use of CGM in GDM has not been well studied, a growing body of evidence is showing potential benefits in the GDM population. This article discusses the advantages and challenges of CGM and provides practical guidelines for using this technology in the GDM population.

All Children Deserve to Be Safe, Mothers Too: Evidence and Rationale Supporting Continuous Glucose Monitoring Use in Gestational Diabetes Within the Medicaid Population

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common metabolic disease of pregnancy that threatens the health of several million women and their offspring. The highest prevalence of GDM is seen in women of low socioeconomic status. Women with GDM are at increased risk of adverse maternal outcomes, including increased rates of Cesarean section delivery, preeclampsia, perineal tears, and postpartum hemorrhage. However, of even greater concern is the increased risk to the fetus and long-term health of the child due to elevated glycemia during pregnancy. Although the use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has been shown to reduce the incidence of maternal and fetal complications in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes, most state Medicaid programs do not cover CGM for women with GDM. This article reviews current statistics relevant to the incidence and costs of GDM among Medicaid beneficiaries, summarizes key findings from pregnancy studies using CGM, and presents a rationale for expanding and standardizing CGM coverage for GDM within state Medicaid populations.

Association of Changes in A1C Following Continuous Glucose Monitoring Acquisition in People with Sub-Optimally Treated Type 2 Diabetes Taking GLP-1 RA Therapy

INTRODUCTION

Both glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA) and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) improve glycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, it is unknown whether adding CGM to GLP-1 RA therapy further improves A1c. We evaluated changes in A1c levels 6 months after initiation of FreeStyle Libre (FSL) in adults with sub-optimally controlled T2D already on GLP-1 RA therapy.

METHODS

This retrospective, observational study used Optum's de-identified Market Clarity Data, a linked electronic health record-claims database to assess changes in A1c after FSL acquisition. Inclusion criteria were T2D diagnosis, ≥ 18 years, baseline A1c ≥ 8%, with the first FSL acquisition between 2018 and 2022. Patients were required to be on GLP-1 RA prior to FSL with at least one GLP-1 RA prescription within 90 days of FSL acquisition. GLP-1 RA initiation was defined as the earliest GLP-1 RA prescription from 2017 onwards. Paired changes in A1c were assessed at 6 months after initial FSL acquisition.

RESULTS

The study cohort included 1454 adults with T2D (age 55 ± 10 years, 52% male, 38% with intensive insulin therapy, median 471 days from GLP-1 RA initiation to FSL, and baseline A1c 9.8 ± 1.5%). After FSL acquisition, patients experienced an A1c decrease of 1.5 ± 1.9% (p < 0.001). Patients with a baseline A1c > 10% had the largest reduction (n = 497, - 2.7 ± 2.2%, p < 0.001). Significant improvements were observed in subgroups based on insulin therapy and GLP-1 RA formulation. Those initiating GLP-1 RA therapy > 24 months before FSL acquisition also showed improvements in A1c (n = 478; - 1.3 ± 1.7%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In a large, real-world study of adults with T2D, those on prior GLP-1 RA therapy experienced significant A1c improvements after acquiring FSL, irrespective of GLP-1 RA duration, GLP-1 RA formulation, or insulin therapy type. These findings support the use of FSL in adults with T2D treated with GLP-1 RA.

Reduced Rate of Hospitalizations for Acute Diabetes Events Before and After FreeStyle Libre® System Initiation in Some People With Type 2 Diabetes on Insulin-Secretagogue Oral Drug Therapy Without Insulin in France

Objective: Glycemic management in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on insulin-secretagogue regimens without insulin is of importance, as this group still represents a significant proportion of patients. Risks for acute diabetes events (ADEs), including diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hypoglycemia, using insulin-secretagogue drugs are well established. Few studies have suggested that continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) could be useful for monitoring glucose dynamics associated with the use of such therapies. To document this point an exploratory analysis was conducted in a group of individuals with noninsulin treated T2DM in France who are managed with oral insulin-secretagogues and initiating the FreeStyle Libre® system (FSL). Methods: A retrospective study of the French national SNDS reimbursement claims database (≈66 million French people) was conducted to identify people with T2DM on oral insulin-secretagogues and receiving a first reimbursement of FSL between August 1, 2017 and December 31, 2018. The analysis included data for the 12 months before and up to 24 months after FSL initiation. Hospitalizations for diabetes-related acute events were identified using ICD-10 codes as main or related diagnosis, for: hypoglycemic events; DKA events; comas; and hyperglycemia-related admissions. Results: A total of 1272 people with T2DM on insulin-secretagogues without insulin initiated FSL during the selection period. Of these, 7.15% had at least one hospitalization for any ADE in the year before FSL initiation, compared with 2.52% at 12 months and 2.83% at 24 months following FSL initiation. Reductions in ADEs were driven by -73% fewer admissions for ADEs related to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or other hyperglycemia-related events. These patterns of reduced ADEs persisted after 2 years. Conclusions: This study suggests the value of the FSL system in reducing ADEs in some people with T2DM in France being treated with insulin-secretagogues without insulin. Characteristics of these patients remain to be documented.

Adoption of Diabetes Technology in Denmark: Continuous Glucose Monitor as Time-Machine

Health technologies to monitor glucose values are an important part of daily diabetes self-care. Based on 12 months of fieldwork in Denmark with 14 people with type 2 diabetes, I explore people's experience of living with Continuous Glucose Monitoring. This new technology automatically measures glucose levels throughout the day but is not yet common in type 2 diabetes treatment in Denmark. In this article, I capture the social shaping of Continuous Glucose Monitoring, employing the concept of time. I show how adoption of the technology is embedded in a form of biographical time. This refers to people's use of the technology linked to their stories about themselves. Drawing on a notion of habitus, people's embodied past experiences and future prospects come to shape its use, I propose. My main claim is that while people with diabetes implement the technology into their lives in unique ways, adapting it to their circumstances and social conditions, practice of Continuous Glucose Monitoring reproduce social structures. This is evinced, I argue, in people's tinkering with the technology and the frames of reference used to inform it. I introduce the term "tinkering in time", highlighting the introduction of new health technology within the frame of lived human time.

Increase Access, Reduce Disparities: Recommendations for Modifying Medicaid CGM Coverage Eligibility Criteria

Numerous studies have demonstrated the clinical value of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) populations. However, the eligibility criteria for CGM coverage required by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) ignore the conclusive evidence that supports CGM use in various diabetes populations that are currently deemed ineligible. In an earlier article, we discussed the limitations and inconsistencies of the agency's CGM eligibility criteria relative to current scientific evidence and proposed practice solutions to address this issue and improve the safety and care of Medicare beneficiaries with diabetes. Although Medicaid is administered through CMS, there is no consistent Medicaid policy for CGM coverage in the United States. This article presents a rationale for modifying and standardizing Medicaid CGM coverage eligibility across the United States.

Continuous glucose monitoring for the routine care of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Although continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices are now considered the standard of care for people with type 1 diabetes mellitus, the uptake among people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been slower and is focused on those receiving intensive insulin therapy. However, increasing evidence now supports the inclusion of CGM in the routine care of people with T2DM who are on basal insulin-only regimens or are managed with other medications. Expanding CGM to these groups could minimize hypoglycaemia while allowing efficient adaptation and escalation of therapies. Increasing evidence from randomized controlled trials and observational studies indicates that CGM is of clinical value in people with T2DM on non-intensive treatment regimens. If further studies confirm this finding, CGM could soon become a part of routine care for T2DM. In this Perspective we explore the potential benefits of widening the application of CGM in T2DM, along with the challenges that must be overcome for the evidence-based benefits of this technology to be delivered for all people with T2DM.

Importance of FDA-Integrated Continuous Glucose Monitors to Ensure Accuracy of Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has been shown to improve glycemic control and self-monitoring, as well as to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia. Integrated CGM (iCGM) FDA-cleared systems with published performance data are established nonadjunctive and accurate CGM tools that can directly inform decision-making in the treatment of diabetes (i.e., insulin dosing). Studies have assessed accuracy and safety data of CGMs that were eventually cleared for iCGM by the FDA and that informed the recommendation for their nonadjunctive use. Subsequent robust clinical trials and real-world studies demonstrated clinical effectiveness with improvements in a range of patient outcomes. In recent years, a number of non-iCGM-approved CGM devices have entered the market outside the United States worldwide. Some of these non-iCGM-approved CGM devices require additional user verification of blood glucose levels to be performed for making treatment decisions, termed adjunctive. Moreover, in many non-iCGM-approved CGM devices, accuracy studies published in peer-reviewed journals are scarce or have many limitations. Consequently, non-iCGM-approved CGM devices cannot be automatically perceived as having the same performance or quality standards than those approved for iCGM by the FDA. As a result, although these devices tend to cost less than iCGMs that carry FDA clearance and could therefore be attractive from the point of view of a health care payer, it must be emphasized that evaluation of costs should not be limited to the device (such as the usability preference that patients have for nonadjunctive sensors compared to adjunctive sensors) but to the wider value of the total benefit that the product provides to the patient.

Real-world evidence in the use of Bevacizumab in age-related macular degeneration (ArMD): a scoping review

PURPOSE

Pharmacological treatments for age-related macular degeneration (ArMD) include anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapies. Bevacizumab is used off-label, as it has no indication for ArMD. This study aims to identify and describe literature on real-world evidence of bevacizumab (originator or biosimilars) use in ArMD.

METHODS

A scoping review was conducted in Medline, CINAHL and Embase databases. Studies published in English after September 2017, conducted in USA, including adults (≥ 18 years old) with ArMD who received treatment with bevacizumab for ArMD were included. The review was further limited to peer-reviewed observational studies that quantitatively analyze either clinical or patient-reported outcomes among patients treated with bevacizumab for ArMD.

RESULTS

The search strategy retrieved 543 studies. After title and abstract screening, a total of 142 studies were selected for full-text review leading to a total of 12 studies qualifying for data charting. All were retrospective studies. Five (41.6%) of the studies had less than 500 eyes included in the analysis, and the rest had over a thousand eyes. All except one study reported clinical outcomes (visual acuity was the main outcome in 8 (66.6%) studies). There were 3 (25%) studies reporting adverse events of bevacizumab intravitreal injections. None of the studies specified using biosimilars for bevacizumab and none mentioned patient-reported outcomes.

CONCLUSION

The lack of studies aiming to study the patient-reported outcomes as well as the use of biosimilars of bevacizumab in ArMD makes this field a potential for future research. The different exposures and times to follow-up make it difficult to compare results among the selected studies.

The emerging role of digital health in the management of asthma

The most common reasons seen for lack of asthma control include misconceptions about disease control, low controller treatment adherence, poor inhaler technique, and the resulting underuse of controllers and overuse of short-acting beta2 agonists (SABAs). Narrowing these care gaps may be achieved through well-designed patient education that considers the patient's motivation, beliefs, and capabilities regarding their asthma and its management and empowers the patient to become an active participant in treatment decisions. Digital health technologies (DHTs) and digital therapeutic (DT) devices provide new opportunities to monitor treatment behaviors, improve communication between healthcare providers and patients, and generate data that inform educational interactions. DHT and DT have been proven effective in enhancing patient self-management in other chronic conditions, particularly diabetes. Accelerated integration of DHT and DT into the management of asthma patients is facilitated by the use of digital inhalers that employ sensor technology ("smart" inhalers). These devices efficiently provide real-time feedback on controller adherence, SABA use, and inhaler technique that have the strong potential to optimize asthma control.

Expert Recommendations for Using Time-in-Range and Other Continuous Glucose Monitoring Metrics to Achieve Patient-Centered Glycemic Control in People With Diabetes

New metrics for assessing glycemic control beyond HbA1c have recently emerged due to the increasing use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in diabetes clinical practice. Among them, time in range (TIR) has appeared as a simple and intuitive metric that correlates inversely with HbA1c and has also been newly linked to the risk of long-term diabetes complications. The International Consensus on Time in Range established a series of target glucose ranges (TIR, time below range and time above range) and recommendations for time spent within these ranges for different diabetes populations. These parameters should be evaluated together with the ambulatory glucose profile (AGP). Using standardized visual reporting may help people with diabetes and healthcare professionals in the evaluation of glucose control in frequent clinical situations. The objective of the present review is to provide practical insights to quick interpretation of patient-centered metrics based on flash glucose monitoring data, as well as showing some visual examples of common clinical situations and giving practical recommendations for their management.

Reduced acute diabetes events after FreeStyle Libre® system initiation in people 65 years or older with type 2 diabetes on intensive insulin therapy in France

Background and aims Older people with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) on insulin are at increased risk of hypoglycemia and associated morbidity. Management of T2DM in older people must optimize glycemic control while minimizing risks for hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). In France, the FreeStyle Libre® system (FSL) has been reimbursed since June 2017 for T2DM on intensive insulin therapy. We assessed the impact of starting FSL on hospitalizations for acute diabetes events (ADEs) in people ≥65 years old, with T2DM on intensive insulin therapy. Materials and methods A retrospective study on the French SNDS claims database was conducted on people ≥65 years old with T2DM, treated with MDI or insulin pump and starting FSL between 01/08/2017 to 31/12/2018. The analysis covered claims data for 12 months before, and up to 24 months after FSL initiation. Hospitalizations for severe hypoglycemia (SH), DKA, comas and hyperglycemia were identified using ICD-10 codes. Results We identified 38,312 people with T2DM ≥65 years old on intensive insulin therapy initiating FSL during the selection period. Hospitalizations for ADEs were observed in 1.6% of subjects in the 12 months before FSL initiation, compared to 1.05% after 12 months and 0.96% after 24 months, a 34% and 40% reduction, driven by fewer DKA admissions after 12 months and by fewer SH admissions at 24 months. Conclusions These results indicate that FSL can reduce hospitalization for ADEs in this vulnerable older population of adults aged 65 years and older with T2DM on intensive insulin therapy, in whom optimal glycemic control must be achieved while minimizing risk of hypoglycemia and other ADEs.

Important Decrease in Hospitalizations for Acute Diabetes Events Following FreeStyle Libre System Initiation in People with Type 2 Diabetes on Basal Insulin Therapy in France

Aims/Hypothesis: Initiation of insulin therapy in people with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) may be necessary to achieve glycemic targets but is associated with acute diabetes events (ADEs), including severe hypoglycemia (SH) or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). We assessed the impact of initiating FreeStyle Libre^® system (FSL) on hospitalizations for ADEs in people with T2DM on basal insulin only regimen±noninsulin antidiabetic drugs. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of the French national Système National des Données de Santé reimbursement claims database (≈66 million French people) identified people with T2DM on basal insulin therapy receiving a first reimbursement of FSL between August 1, 2017 and December 31, 2018. Claims data for the 12 months before, and up to 24 months after FSL initiation, were analyzed. Hospitalizations for ADEs were identified, using ICD-10 codes as main or related diagnosis, for: SH events; DKA events; comas; and hyperglycemia-related admissions. Results: A total of 5933 people with T2DM on basal insulin therapy initiated FSL during the selection period. Of the patients, 78.9% were on basal insulin and other hypoglycemic agents. Among the 5933 patients identified, 2.01% had at least one hospitalization for any ADE in the year before FSL initiation, compared to 0.75% (1 year) and 0.60% (2 years). Reductions in ADEs were driven by 75% fewer DKA admissions, with a 44% reduction in SH admissions. These patterns of reduced ADEs persisted after 2 years, with a further 43% reduction in DKA rates. Conclusions/Interpretation: This study emphasizes the value of the FSL system in reducing ADEs in people with T2DM in France not on intensive insulin therapy and initially treated with basal-only insulin therapy.

Real-world study of flash glucose monitoring among adults with type 2 diabetes within the Swedish National Diabetes Register

BACKGROUND

The Swedish National Diabetes Register (NDR) initiated registration of the FreeStyle Libre® system and other continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems in June 2016. We investigated change in HbA1c for people with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) using FreeStyle Libre in Sweden.

METHODS

We included adults with T2DM, registered in the NDR after January 1, 2014, and an index date for first use of FreeStyle Libre of June 2016 or later. Methodology was a before/after comparison of HbA1c within 6 months before the index date versus HbA1c around 6 and 12 months after the index date.

RESULTS

711 adults with T2DM using FreeStyle Libre had HbA1c measurements within the study period. Mean HbA1c was significantly reduced at 6 months (-0.50%-unit) and at 12 months (-0.52%-unit) in this group. Degree of change was negatively correlated to baseline HbA1c. Reductions in HbA1c were observed in incident users of FreeStyle Libre with T2DM who were truly naïve to CGM or had unknown prior experience of CGM, and aged 25-74 years.

CONCLUSIONS

This real-world study on the Swedish NDR shows that people with T2DM using FreeStyle Libre system for 6 and 12 months significantly reduced their HbA1c.

Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Flash Glucose Monitoring System for People with Type 2 Diabetes Receiving Intensive Insulin Treatment

AIMS

For people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) on intensive insulin therapy, the use of flash continuous glucose monitoring ("flash monitoring") is associated with improved average glucose control and/or reduced hypoglycemic exposure. This study assessed the cost-effectiveness of flash monitoring versus traditional blood glucose monitoring (BGM) in people with T2D using intensive insulin in the United Kingdom (UK).

METHODS

The IQVIA CORE Diabetes Model (IQVIA CDM; v9.0) was used to analyze the impact of flash monitoring versus BGM over a 40-year time horizon from the UK payer perspective. Model inputs included baseline characteristics, intervention effects, resource utilization, costs, and utilities, based on recently published literature and national databases. UK National Health Service reimbursed costs of flash monitoring and BGM were used. An intervention-related health utility was obtained from a time trade-off study. Alternative scenarios were explored to assess the impact of key assumptions on base case results.

RESULTS

In base-case analysis, flash monitoring compared with BGM resulted in an incremental cost of £5781 and an additional 0.47 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). This provides an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of £12,309/QALY. HbA1c and the intervention-related health utility were the key drivers of differentiation. All scenario analyses, including different discount rates, time horizons, effects on HbA1c and on the intervention-related health utility, as well as glycemic emergencies, generated ICERs of less than £20,000 per QALY.

CONCLUSIONS

The consistent results across base case and a range of scenario analyses indicate that long-term flash glucose monitoring use is cost-effective compared with BGM in a UK population of T2D on intensive insulin therapy based on updated clinical effects and a cost-effectiveness threshold of £20,000-30,000 per QALY.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Primary Care: Understanding and Supporting Clinicians' Use to Enhance Diabetes Care

PURPOSE

Diabetes affects approximately 34 million Americans and many do not achieve glycemic targets. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is associated with improved health outcomes for patients with diabetes. Most adults with diabetes receive care for their diabetes in primary care practices, where uptake of CGM is unclear.

METHODS

We used a cross-sectional web-based survey to assess CGM prescribing behaviors and resource needs among primary care clinicians across the United States. We used descriptive statistics and multivariable regression to identify characteristics associated with prescribing behaviors, openness to prescribing CGM, and to understand resources needed to support use of CGM in primary care.

RESULTS

Clinicians located more than 40 miles from the nearest endocrinologist's office were more likely to have prescribed CGM and reported greater likelihood to prescribe CGM in the future than those located within 10 miles of an endocrinologist. Clinicians who served more Medicare patients reported favorable attitudes toward future prescribing and higher confidence using CGM to manage diabetes than clinicians with lower Medicare patient volume. The most-needed resources to support CGM use in primary care were consultation on insurance issues and CGM training.

CONCLUSIONS

Primary care clinicians are interested in using CGM for patients with diabetes, but many lack the resources to implement use of this diabetes technology. Use of CGM can be supported with education in the form of workshops and consultation on insurance issues targeted toward residents, recent graduates, and practices without a nearby endocrinologist. Continued expansion of Medicare and Medicaid coverage for CGM can also support CGM use in primary care.

Effects of flash glucose monitoring on glycemic control in participants with diabetes mellitus: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

With the introduction of flash glucose monitoring (FGM) into the international market in 2014, academics worldwide are exploring whether this device improves glycemic control in participants with diabetes mellitus.

OBJECTIVE

A study was conducted in which participants were evaluated to determine the effect of FGM on glycemic control.

METHODS

From inception to April 9, 2022, we searched the Cochrane Library, PubMed, SinoMed, Embase, Web of Science, MEDLINE, CNKI, Wan Fang Data, and VIP databases to collect randomized controlled trials (RCTs) related to the effect of FGM on glycemic control in participants with diabetes mellitus. Outcomes included glycated hemoglobin, the occurrence of hypoglycemic events, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and 2-h postprandial glucose (2hPG) levels. The statistical analysis was performed using R 4.1.3 software.

RESULTS

We included 19 studies involving 2013 participants, all of which were RCTs. Meta-analysis results revealed that compared to self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG), FGM significantly reduced glycated hemoglobin levels in participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus [mean difference = -0.74 [95 % CI-1.16, -0.32], P < 0.01] and type 1 diabetes mellitus combined with type 2 diabetes mellitus [mean difference = -1.14 [95 % CI-3.14, 0.87], P < 0.01], with a greater effect in participants aged ≤65 years with type 2 diabetes mellitus (mean difference = -1.38 [95 % CI-2.05, -0.72], P < 0.01). However, there was no effect of FGM on the improvement of glycated hemoglobin levels in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus [P = 0.45]. Furthermore, fasting plasma glucose levels and 2-h postprandial glucose levels were significantly lower in FGM than SMBG, and the number of hypoglycemic events was also significantly lower.

CONCLUSION

Comparing SMBG with FGM indicated that FGM improves fasting plasma glucose levels, 2-h postprandial glucose levels, and glycated hemoglobin levels, and it reduces the number of hypoglycemic events.

American Association of Clinical Endocrinology Clinical Practice Guideline: Developing a Diabetes Mellitus Comprehensive Care Plan-2022 Update

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this clinical practice guideline is to provide updated and new evidence-based recommendations for the comprehensive care of persons with diabetes mellitus to clinicians, diabetes-care teams, other health care professionals and stakeholders, and individuals with diabetes and their caregivers.

METHODS

The American Association of Clinical Endocrinology selected a task force of medical experts and staff who updated and assessed clinical questions and recommendations from the prior 2015 version of this guideline and conducted literature searches for relevant scientific papers published from January 1, 2015, through May 15, 2022. Selected studies from results of literature searches composed the evidence base to update 2015 recommendations as well as to develop new recommendations based on review of clinical evidence, current practice, expertise, and consensus, according to established American Association of Clinical Endocrinology protocol for guideline development.

RESULTS

This guideline includes 170 updated and new evidence-based clinical practice recommendations for the comprehensive care of persons with diabetes. Recommendations are divided into four sections: (1) screening, diagnosis, glycemic targets, and glycemic monitoring; (2) comorbidities and complications, including obesity and management with lifestyle, nutrition, and bariatric surgery, hypertension, dyslipidemia, retinopathy, neuropathy, diabetic kidney disease, and cardiovascular disease; (3) management of prediabetes, type 2 diabetes with antihyperglycemic pharmacotherapy and glycemic targets, type 1 diabetes with insulin therapy, hypoglycemia, hospitalized persons, and women with diabetes in pregnancy; (4) education and new topics regarding diabetes and infertility, nutritional supplements, secondary diabetes, social determinants of health, and virtual care, as well as updated recommendations on cancer risk, nonpharmacologic components of pediatric care plans, depression, education and team approach, occupational risk, role of sleep medicine, and vaccinations in persons with diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

This updated clinical practice guideline provides evidence-based recommendations to assist with person-centered, team-based clinical decision-making to improve the care of persons with diabetes mellitus.

Reduced Rate of Acute Diabetes Events with Flash Glucose Monitoring Is Sustained for 2 Years After Initiation: Extended Outcomes from the RELIEF Study

Background: The RELIEF study has previously shown a fall in the rate of acute diabetes events (ADEs) in people living with type 1 diabetes (PwDT1) or people living with type 2 diabetes (PwDT2) in the 12 months after initiation of flash glucose monitoring (FLASH) in France. The 2-year follow-up has provided new insights on the frequency of ADEs, including severe hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), during use of FLASH. Methods: The RELIEF study included 31,446 PwDT1 and 41,027 PwDT2 with a first delivery of FreeStyle Libre (FSL) between August 1 and December 31, 2017. Hospitalizations for DKA, severe hypoglycemia, diabetes-related coma, and hyperglycemia were recorded for the 12 months before and 24 months after FSL initiation. Persistence of the FSL system use was estimated through a Kaplan-Meier survival curve. Change in usual blood glucose monitoring was estimated through acquisition of blood glucose test strips. Results: In the 2 years after FSL initiation, hospitalizations for ADEs were reduced by 49% and by 48% in PwDT1 or PwDT2, respectively, driven by reductions in DKA. After 2 years, 88% of patients persisted with the system and estimated mean consumption of blood glucose test strips had fallen after 2 years by -82% and by -84% in type 1 diabetes mellitus and type 2 diabetes mellitus, respectively. Conclusion: Use of FSL consistently reduces the rates of hospitalization for ADEs, mainly DKA, 2 years after initiation, confirming this is not a transitory effect. Use of FSL also results in a clear and progressive drop in use of blood glucose test strips over the 2-year period.

Association Between Real-Time Continuous Glucose Monitor Use and Diabetes-Related Medical Costs for Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Little is known about the impact of real-time continuous glucose monitoring (rtCGM) on diabetes-related medical costs within the type 2 diabetes (T2D) population. A retrospective analysis of administrative claims data from the Optum Research Database was conducted. Changes in diabetes-related health care resource utilization costs were expressed as per-patient-per-month (PPPM) costs. A total of 571 T2D patients (90% insulin treated) met study inclusion criteria. Average PPPM for diabetes-related medical costs decreased by -$424 (95% confidence interval [CI] -$816 to -$31, P = 0.035) after initiating rtCGM. These reductions were driven, in part, by reductions in diabetes-related inpatient medical costs: -$358 (95% CI -$706 to -$10, P = 0.044). Inpatient hospital admissions were reduced on average -0.006 PPPM (P = 0.057) and total hospital days were reduced an average of -0.042 PPPM (P = 0.139). These findings provide real-world evidence that rtCGM use was associated with diabetes-related health care resource utilization cost reductions in patients with T2D.

How use of continuous glucose monitoring can address therapeutic inertia in primary care

A significant proportion of individuals with diabetes have suboptimal glycemic management. Studies have shown that persistent hyperglycemia significantly increases the risks for both acute and long-term microvascular and macrovascular complications of diabetes. A key contributor to suboptimal glycemic management is therapeutic inertia in which clinicians delay intensifying therapy when patients are not meeting their glycemic goals. During the past five years, an increasing number of individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and insulin-treated type 2 diabetes (T2D) have adopted use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) for daily measurement of glucose levels. As demonstrated in numerous clinical trials and real-world observational studies, use of CGM improves glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and reduces the occurrence and severity of hypoglycemia. However, for primary care clinicians who are unfamiliar with using CGM, integrating this technology into clinical practice can be daunting. In this article, we discuss the benefits and rationale for using CGM compared with traditional blood glucose monitoring (BGM), review the evidence supporting the clinical value of CGM in patients with T1D and T2D, and describe how use of CGM in primary care can facilitate appropriate and more timely therapy adjustments.

A guide for the use of LibreView digital diabetes platform in clinical practice: Expert paper of the Italian Working Group on Diabetes and Technology

Wider access to continuous glucose monitoring systems, including flash glucose monitoring, has enabled people with diabetes to achieve lower HbA1c levels and reduce the amount of time they spend in hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia, and has improved their quality of life. An International Consensus Panel proposed different target glucose ranges and recommendations according to different ages and situations (adults, young people and children with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, as well as elderly people who are at higher risk of hypoglycaemia, and women with diabetes during pregnancy). In this expert opinion, we interpret the international recommendations in the context of established clinical practice for diabetes care, and propose three different step-by-step algorithms to help the healthcare professionals use the most innovative glucose metrics, including time in glucose ranges, glucose management indicator, coefficient of variation, and ambulatory glucose profile. In detail, we focus on glucose metrics as measured by the FreeStyle Libre system and as visualized on the LibreView digital diabetes platform to support appropriate interpretation of flash glucose monitoring data. This is specifically structured for healthcare professionals and general practitioners who may have a low level of confidence with diabetes technology, with the aim of optimizing diabetes management, ensuring effective use of healthcare resources and to maximise outcomes for people with diabetes.

Virtual visits and the use of continuous glucose monitoring for diabetes care in the era of COVID-19

ABSTRACT

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to an increase in virtual care utilization for patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). Virtual DM care requires both providers and patients to become familiar with new technology that supports home health monitoring. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a DM technology that provides 24-hr glucose monitoring and is associated with improved clinical outcomes, including decreased rates of hypoglycemia and lower hemoglobin A1c (A1c). Continuous glucose monitoring use has increased due to ease of use and its ability to allow patients to share data with providers during virtual visits. Although the clinical benefits of CGM use are clear, many providers are overwhelmed by the various options available and large influx of data received. The purpose of this clinical case review is to provide an overview of CGM use in the virtual care setting. Various types of CGMs will be defined and an overview of the patient characteristics shown to benefit most from CGM use will be provided. Further, recommendations for improving clinic workflow when using CGM will be outlined, including strategies to handle the influx of large datasets, outlining the role of the nurse practitioner (NP) and other providers in the clinic, and organizing data for efficient and improved clinical decision making. Continuous glucose monitoring use is hallmarked to revolutionize DM care for many patients, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important that clinicians understand the nuances of CGM use and organize their virtual clinics to efficiently manage CGM users, leading to improved clinical decisions and patient outcomes.

FreeStyle Libre Flash Glucose Monitoring system for people with type 1 diabetes in the UK: a budget impact analysis

INTRODUCTION

This study aims to estimate the budget impact of increased uptake of the FreeStyle Libre Flash Glucose Monitoring system in people with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in the UK.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A budget impact model was developed, applying real-world data collected in the Association of British Clinical Diabetologists (ABCD) FreeStyle Libre Nationwide Audit. Costs of diabetes glucose monitoring in a T1DM population (n=1790) using self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) or the FreeStyle Libre system were compared with a scenario with increased use of the FreeStyle Libre system.

RESULTS

The ABCD audit demonstrates FreeStyle Libre system use reduces diabetes-related resource utilization. The cost analysis found that higher acquisition costs are offset by healthcare costs avoided (difference £168 per patient per year (PPPY)). Total costs were £1116 PPPY with FreeStyle Libre system compared with £948 PPPY with SMBG. In an average-sized UK local health economy, increasing FreeStyle Libre system uptake from 30% to 50% increased costs by 3.4% (£1 787 345-£1 847 618) and when increased to 70% increased by a further 3.3%.

CONCLUSION

Increased uptake of the FreeStyle Libre system in the T1DM population marginally increases the cost to UK health economies and offers many system benefits.

Flash glucose monitoring in type 2 diabetes managed with basal insulin in the USA: a retrospective real-world chart review study and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Evidence supporting use of continuous glucose monitoring in type 2 diabetes treated with basal insulin is unclear. This real-world study aimed to assess the impact on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) of flash glucose monitoring use in adults with type 2 diabetes managed with basal insulin.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Medical records were reviewed for adult individuals with type 2 diabetes using basal insulin for ≥1 year with or without additional antihyperglycemic medication, HbA1c 8.0%-12.0% prior to FreeStyle Libre Flash Glucose Monitoring use for ≥90 days and an HbA1c measurement recorded between 90 and 194 days after device use. Exclusion criteria included utilization of bolus insulin. Meta-analysis data are from the current study (USA) and a similar Canadian cohort.

RESULTS

Medical record analysis (n=100) from 8 USA study sites showed significant HbA1c decrease of 1.4%±1.3%, from 9.4%±1.0% at baseline to 8.0%±1.2% after device use, p<0.0001 (mean±SD).Meta-analysis of medical records from USA and Canada sites (n=191) showed HbA1c significantly decreased by 1.1%±0.14% (mean±SE), from baseline 9.2%±1.0% to 8.1%±1.1%, p≤0.0001, with moderate to high heterogeneity between sites (Q=43.9, I²=74.9, p<0.0001) explained by differences in baseline HbA1c between sites.The HbA1c improvement in both groups was observed by age group, body mass index, duration of insulin use and sex at birth.

CONCLUSIONS

In a real-world retrospective USA study and a meta-analysis of a larger USA and Canada cohort, HbA1c significantly reduced in basal insulin-treated type 2 diabetes, without bolus insulin initiation and following the commencement of flash glucose monitoring technology.

The use of flash glucose monitoring significantly improves glycemic control in type 2 diabetes managed with basal bolus insulin therapy compared to self-monitoring of blood glucose: A prospective observational cohort study

AIM

This prospective, observational cohort study aimed to measure HbA1c change over 3-6 months in type 2 diabetes managed with basal-bolus insulin and FreeStyle Libre® Flash Glucose Monitoring System (FSL) use compared to self-monitored blood glucose (SMBG).

METHODS

Sixteen Italian hospitals enrolled patients with type 2 diabetes (n = 322, [109 FSL, 213 SMBG users]) using basal-bolus insulin therapy for ≥ 1 year, HbA1c 8.0-12.0% (64-108 mmol/mol), new to FSL use (<3 months) or continuing with SMBG (controls). Eligible FSL and SMBG users were matched (1:2 ratio) for baseline HbA1c (within ± 0.5%, recorded ≤ 3 months previously), study site and baseline data collection date.

RESULTS

Overall, baseline HbA1c was 8.9 ± 0.8% (74 ± 9 mmol/mol), age 67.2 ± 10.0 years, BMI 30.5 ± 6.5 kg/m² and insulin use duration 8.6 ± 6.6 years (mean ± SD), 56.2% were males. After 3-6 months, 234 complete cases (83 FSL, 151 SMBG users) demonstrated significantly reduced HbA1c for FSL use compared to SMBG (0.3% ± 0.12 [3 mmol/mol ± 1.3, (mean ± SE)], p = 0.0112). The difference remained statistically significant after adjusting for confounders.

CONCLUSIONS

HbA1c significantly improved in basal-bolus treated type 2 diabetes after flash glucose monitoring use for 3-6 months compared to SMBG.

Personal Continuous Glucose Monitoring Use Among Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: Clinical Efficacy and Economic Impacts

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article reviews recent clinical efficacy research and economic analysis of the use of personal continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in type 2 diabetes (T2D).

RECENT FINDINGS

Studies from the past 5 years include a variety of randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and other studies which generally favor CGM over self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) in T2D, especially among people with T2D treated with insulin. Concurrently, some studies show no significant difference, but there is no evidence of worse outcomes with CGM. CGM is frequently associated with greater reduction in HbA1c than is SMBG. HbA1c reductions tend to be greater when baseline HbA1c is higher. Reductions in hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia have also been demonstrated with CGM in people with T2D, as have comfort with, preference for, and psychosocial benefits of CGM compared to SMBG. There is a small but growing evidence base on the economics and cost-effectiveness of CGM in T2D. CGM has been clearly demonstrated to have clinical benefits in people with T2D, especially among those treated with insulin. Economic and cost-effectiveness data are more scant but are generally favorable. CGM should be an important consideration in the management of T2D, and its use is likely to increase as efficacy data accumulate further and as costs associated with CGM gradually decrease.

Real-World Studies Support Use of Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Independently of Treatment Regimen

Numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated the glycemic benefits of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in management of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes. Although RCTs remain the gold standard clinical study design, findings from these trials do not necessarily reflect the effectiveness of CGM or reveal the feasibility and wider applications for use in broader real-life settings. This review evaluates recent real-world evidence (RWE) demonstrating the value of CGM to improve clinical outcomes, such as avoidance of severe hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic crises, and improved measures of psychological health and quality of life. Additionally, this review considers recent RWE for the role of CGM to enhance health care resource utilization, including prediction of T1D and applications in gestational diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and monitoring during surgery.

Insurance Coverage for Emerging Diabetes Technologies: Payers' Perspective

Advances in glucose monitoring and insulin delivery technologies have led to the development of innovative self-management tools, such as continuous glucose monitoring, automated insulin delivery systems, and smart connected insulin pens. Although the clinical advantages of today's emerging diabetes technologies are well documented, the cost of integrating these tools into clinical practice must be considered to sustain the financial viability of both public and private insurers. Most clinicians are unfamiliar with the process the commercial insurers follow when making these decisions. This article reviews the key factors the insurers consider when determining eligibility criteria.

Landscape of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) and Integrated CGM: Accuracy Considerations

Continuous glucose monitoring devices have significantly improved in many respects compared with earlier versions. As sensor accuracy improved, U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a nonadjunctive indication for use that no longer required confirmatory blood glucose monitoring. This article discusses the performance characteristics and regulatory classifications for the current systems that are relevant to informed clinical decision-making.

Mobile health in preventive cardiology: current status and future perspective

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Despite cutting edge acute interventions and growing preventive strategies supported by robust clinical trials, cardiovascular disease (CVD) has stubbornly persisted as a leading cause of death in the United States and globally. The American Heart Association recognizes mobile health technologies (mHealth) as an emerging strategy in the mitigation of CVD risk factors, with significant potential for improving population health. The purpose of this review is to highlight and summarize the latest available literature on mHealth applications and provide perspective on future directions and barriers to implementation.

RECENT FINDINGS

While available randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews tend to support efficacy of mHealth, published literature includes heterogenous approaches to similar problems with inconsistent results. Some of the strongest recent evidence has been focused on the use of wearables in arrhythmia detection. Systematic reviews of mHealth approaches demonstrate benefit when applied to risk factor modification in diabetes, cigarette smoking cessation, and physical activity/weight loss, while also showing promise in multi risk factor modification via cardiac rehabilitation.

SUMMARY

Evidence supports efficacy of mHealth in a variety of applications for CVD prevention and management, but continued work is needed for further validation and scaling. Future directions will focus on platform optimization, data and sensor consolidation, and clinical workflow integration. Barriers include application heterogeneity, lack of reimbursement structures, and inequitable access to technology. Policies to promote access to technology will be critical to evidence-based mHealth technologies reaching diverse populations and advancing health equity.

Budget Impact of the Flash Continuous Glucose Monitoring System in Medicaid Diabetes Beneficiaries Treated with Intensive Insulin Therapy

Objective: We assessed the economic impact of using the newest flash continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) among Medicaid beneficiaries with diabetes treated with intensive insulin therapy (IIT). Research Design and Methods: A budget impact analysis was created to assess the impact of increasing the proportion of Medicaid beneficiaries with diabetes on IIT, who use flash CGM by 10%. The analysis included glucose monitoring device costs, cost savings due to reductions in glycated hemoglobin, severe hypoglycemia events, and hyperglycemic emergencies such as diabetic ketoacidosis. The net change in costs per person to adopt flash CGM for three populations treated with IIT (adults with type 1 diabetes [T1D] or type 2 diabetes [T2D], and children and adolescents with T1D or T2D) was calculated; these costs were used to estimate the impact of increasing flash CGM use by 10% to the U.S. Medicaid budget over 1-3 years. Results: The analysis found that flash CGM demonstrated cost savings in all populations on a per patient basis. Increasing use of flash CGM by 10% was associated with a $19.4 million overall decrease in costs over the year and continued to reduce costs by $25.3 million in years 2 and 3. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the new flash CGM system can offer cost savings compared to blood glucose monitoring in Medicaid beneficiaries treated with IIT, especially T1D adults, and children and adolescents. These findings support expanding access to CGM by Medicaid plans.

What's Wrong with This Picture? A Critical Review of Current Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Coverage Criteria for Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Numerous studies have demonstrated the clinical value of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes populations. However, the eligibility criteria for CGM coverage required by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) ignore conclusive evidence that supports CGM use in various diabetes populations that are currently deemed ineligible. This article discusses the limitations and inconsistencies of the CMS eligibility criteria relative to current scientific evidence and proposes workable solutions to address this issue and improve the safety and care of all individuals with diabetes.

Integrating Continuous Glucose Monitoring Into Clinical Practices and Patients' Lives

Numerous studies have demonstrated the clinical benefits of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in individuals with diabetes. Within ongoing innovations in CGM technology, individuals now have an expanding array of options that allow them to select the device that meets their individual needs and preferences. Although demand for CGM in primary care continues to grow, many clinicians are reluctant to prescribe this technology due to their unfamiliarity with the various devices, uncertainty about which devices are best suited to each patient and the feasibility of using CGM. This article reviews the features and functionality of the most recent commercially available CGM devices and provides guidance for integrating CGM use into clinical practices.

The impact of flash glucose monitoring on glycated hemoglobin in type 2 diabetes managed with basal insulin in Canada: A retrospective real-world chart review study

BACKGROUND

The real-world effect of intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring on glucose control in type 2 diabetes treated with basal insulin is uncertain. This retrospective real-world study aimed to evaluate change in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) amongst adults with type 2 diabetes managed with basal insulin starting flash glucose monitoring.

METHODS

Medical records were reviewed for adults with type 2 diabetes treated with basal insulin for ⩾1 year and using FreeStyle Libre^TM Flash Glucose Monitoring for ⩾3 months. Prior to device use an HbA1c 8.0%-12.0% was recorded and a further HbA1c result was recorded 3-6 months (90-194 days) after starting device use.

RESULTS

Medical records (n = 91) analyzed from six Canadian diabetes centers showed HbA1c significantly decreased by 0.8% ± 1.1 (mean ± SD, [p < 0.0001]) from mean baseline HbA1c 8.9% ± 0.9 to 8.1% ± 1.0 at 3-6 months after initiating flash glucose monitoring. HbA1c improvement was not independently associated with age, BMI, insulin use duration, or sex.

CONCLUSION

This Canadian real-world retrospective study showed significantly reduced HbA1c following initiation of flash glucose monitoring technology to further support management of type 2 diabetes treated with basal insulin.

The Impact of Flash Glucose Monitoring on Markers of Glycaemic Control and Patient Satisfaction in Type 2 Diabetes

INTRODUCTION

The effect of flash glucose monitoring on glycaemic control and patient satisfaction in insulin-treated type 2 diabetes (T2D) from Saudi Arabia is uncertain. The aim of this prospective observational study was to evaluate the change in HbA1c (Hemoglobin A1c) and satisfaction with treatment following the initiation of flash glucose monitoring.

METHODS

This single-arm, single-centre prospective observational study included flash glucose monitoring-naive adult patients with T2D managed with multiple daily injections of insulin therapy (MDI) and HbA1c ≥7%. HbA1c was measured, and the Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (DTSQ, Arabic version) and Glucose Monitoring Satisfaction Survey (GMSS) were completed at baseline and 12 weeks.

RESULTS

For participants (n=54) from one diabetes centre, HbA1c significantly improved by 0.44% from 8.22%±0.69 (mean±SD) at baseline to 7.78%±0.71 at 12 weeks, p<0.001. Confirmed hypoglycaemic episodes reduced from 4.43±1.51 episodes/month to 1.24±1.15 (-3.19, p<0.001). Glucose monitoring frequency improved, indicated by the number of scans per day, with a mean increase of 5.13 (p <0.001) tests/day. GMSS scores improved across all four categories, as did overall treatment satisfaction (p<0.001 for all categories). Patients perceived clear improvements across all questions relating to satisfaction and frequency of hypo- or hyperglycaemic episodes.

CONCLUSION

Following initiation of flash glucose monitoring in patients with T2D and MDI insulin therapy, HbA1c improved with reduced hypoglycaemic events and increased patient-reported satisfaction. This study contributes valuable data on the use of flash glucose monitoring in this population, and a larger multicentre study is warranted to inform future health policy for T2D in Saudi Arabia.

A review of flash glucose monitoring in type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Continuous glucose monitoring systems are increasingly being adopted as an alternative to self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) by persons with diabetes mellitus receiving insulin therapy.

MAIN BODY

The FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring system (Abbott Diabetes Care, Witney, United Kingdom) consists of a factory-calibrated sensor worn on the back of the arm which measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid every minute and stores the reading automatically every 15 min. Swiping the reader device over the sensor retrieves stored data and displays current interstitial glucose levels, a glucose trend arrow, and a graph of glucose readings over the preceding 8 h. In patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) receiving insulin therapy, pivotal efficacy data were provided by the 6-month REPLACE randomized controlled trial (RCT) and 6-month extension study. Compared to SMBG, the flash system significantly reduced the time spent in hypoglycemia and frequency of hypoglycemic events, although no significant change was observed in glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. Subsequent RCTs and real-world chart review studies have since shown that flash glucose monitoring significantly reduces HbA1c from baseline. Real-world studies in both type 1 diabetes or T2D populations also showed that flash glucose monitoring improved glycemic control. Higher (versus lower) scanning frequency was associated with significantly greater reductions in HbA1c and significant improvements in other measures such as time spent in hypoglycemia, time spent in hyperglycemia, and time in range. Additional benefits associated with flash glucose monitoring versus SMBG include reductions in acute diabetes events, all-cause hospitalizations and hospitalized ketoacidosis episodes; improved well-being and decreased disease burden; and greater treatment satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

T2D patients who use flash glucose monitoring might expect to achieve significant improvement in HbA1c and glycemic parameters and several associated benefits.

Utilizing continuous glucose monitoring in primary care practice: What the numbers mean

Use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has been shown to improve glycemia control, reduce hypoglycemia, lower glycemic variability and enhance quality of life for individuals with type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. However, many primary care physicians may be unfamiliar with the how CGM data can interpreted and acted upon. As adoption of this technology continues to grow, primary care physicians will be challenged to integrate CGM into their clinical practices. This article is intended to provide clinicians with practical guidance in interpreting and utilizing CGM data with their patients.

Flash Continuous Glucose Monitoring: A Summary Review of Recent Real-World Evidence

Optimizing glycemic control remains a shared challenge for clinicians and their patients with diabetes. Flash continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) provides immediate information about an individual's current and projected glucose level, allowing users to respond promptly to mitigate or prevent pending hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Large randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated the glycemic benefits of flash CGM use in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. However, whereas RCTs are mostly focused on the efficacy of this technology in defined circumstances, real-world studies can assess its effectiveness in wider clinical settings. This review assesses the most recent real-world studies demonstrating the effectiveness of flash CGM use to improve clinical outcomes and health care resource utilization in populations with diabetes.

Improving HbA1c Control in Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes Using Flash Glucose Monitoring: A Retrospective Observational Analysis in Two German Centres

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to evaluate change in laboratory-measured HbA1c in patients with either type 1 diabetes (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D) on insulin therapy following initiation of the FreeStyle Libre™ flash glucose monitoring system.

METHODS

This was a retrospective observational study on adults with T1D or T2D on insulin, who were started on the FreeStyle Libre system as part of standard care. HbA1c was recorded at initiation and at 3-month intervals thereafter.

RESULTS

The analysis included 131 patients with T1D and 176 patients with T2D on insulin. Mean HbA1c decreased significantly by 3 months following initiation of the FreeStyle Libre system, both in T1D (- 0.75%, p < 0.001) and in T2D (- 0.54%, p < 0.001). Reductions were maintained for 12 months. Change from 3 to 12 months was not significant either in T1D or T2D. Subgroup analysis showed significant reduction in patients with a baseline HbA1c > 7.5-10%, both in T1D (- 0.59%, p < 0.001) and in T2D on insulin (- 0.62%, p < 0.005) at 12 months. Reductions for subjects with HbA1c > 10% were - 4.66% in T1D and - 3.73% in T2D. No change was seen for subjects with a baseline HbA1c ≤ 7.5% (58 mmol/mol). Linear regression confirms that baseline HbA1c is strongly negatively correlated with subsequent change in HbA1c in T1D and in T2D.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with T1D or T2D show a reduction in HbA1c by 3 months following initiation of the FreeStyle Libre system. The mean fall in HbA1c at 3 months is strongly negatively correlated with starting HbA1c. This reduction is maintained over 12 months. The significant benefit is seen in patients with a starting HbA1c > 7.5% (58 mmol/mol).

7. Diabetes Technology: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2021

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) "Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes" includes the ADA's current clinical practice recommendations and is intended to provide the components of diabetes care, general treatment goals and guidelines, and tools to evaluate quality of care. Members of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, a multidisciplinary expert committee (https://doi.org/10.2337/dc21-SPPC), are responsible for updating the Standards of Care annually, or more frequently as warranted. For a detailed description of ADA standards, statements, and reports, as well as the evidence-grading system for ADA's clinical practice recommendations, please refer to the Standards of Care Introduction (https://doi.org/10.2337/dc21-SINT). Readers who wish to comment on the Standards of Care are invited to do so at professional.diabetes.org/SOC.

Continuous glucose monitoring: The achievement of 100 years of innovation in diabetes technology

Monitoring of glucose levels is essential to effective diabetes management. Over the past 100 years, there have been numerous innovations in glucose monitoring methods. The most recent advances have centered on continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technologies. Numerous studies have demonstrated that use of continuous glucose monitoring confers significant glycemic benefits on individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Ongoing improvements in accuracy and convenience of CGM devices have prompted increasing adoption of this technology. The development of standardized metrics for assessing CGM data has greatly improved and streamlined analysis and interpretation, enabling clinicians and patients to make more informed therapy modifications. However, many clinicians many be unfamiliar with current CGM and how use of these devices may help individuals with T1DM and T2DM achieve their glycemic targets. The purpose of this review is to present an overview of current CGM systems and provide guidance to clinicians for initiating and utilizing CGM in their practice settings.