Over the last few years, diabetes management has seen a radical transformation. Technology has allowed for continuous glucose monitoring taking the place of finger pricks, insulin pumps making the insulin dosage more predictable, and digital patches.

The prediction is that by 2045, the number of sufferers from diabetes is expected to rise to 629 million. Fortunately, more tech companies specializing in diabetes are working on generating remedies to ease the daily struggles the condition presents. The diabetes community is one of the most prominent online, and they are too pushing for advancements to make disease management easier, simpler, and more efficient.

DexCom has most recently created the Dexcom G6, the system doesn’t require any finger pricks or blood to be drawn. It lets diabetes patients see their blood sugar levels during the day and night with a sensor inserted underneath the skin. The company has been collaborating with Apple to be able to connect the Apple Watch with the Dexcom G6 system.

At one point, Google was attempting to create a non-invasive glucose monitoring technology in the form of a smart contact lens. This was tried but failed. It appears that tech companies have learned their lesson and admit to needing health industry companies with valuable expertise to help build safe devices that meet regulatory approval.

Other companies are working on CGM devices too. The FreeStyle Libre is a wireless monitor that uses flash technology to monitor glucose levels.

Digital skin patches are invasive or non-invasive. There are now longer-term versions of CGMs that can already be placed under the skin, like the Eversense sensor. This sensor monitors blood sugar every 5 minutes for 90 days once implanted. It works by a light signal being generated in response to the levels of glucose in your interstitial fluid.

But, many people prefer non-invasive solutions rather than having a sensor planted into their bodies. The POP! was recently FDA-approved. This system allows for on-the-go glucose testing. It is attached to the back of a smartphone and includes a sensor port, a lancet, and all other requirements so results can be returned in around 30 seconds. After the test is finished, the results are available on the smartphone app with accompanies the product.

Nemaura, a UK-based company, developed a non-invasive system called SugarBEAT CGM.

SugarBEAT is a smart patch that draws a small amount of glucose from the interstitial fluid, a method that is pain-free. Early study results showed, however, that SugarBEAT didn’t have as accurate results as those from Dexcom or other companies. However, it is advancing technology and one that competes well on price.

FixiC adhesive patches for Dexcom and Libre 1, 2, and 3 are still the best solution for the safety of your CGMs!