Hassle-free monitoring device for diabetes patients
SINGAPORE – The Agency for Science, Technology and Research’s Institute of Microelectronics (IME) and Singapore Biomicro announced on Wednesday (Oct 29) they will collaborate on developing a wireless blood glucose monitoring device.
Currently, those with diabetes have to contend with daily finger-prick blood tests to monitor their blood glucose level, which is an integral part of managing the illness to prevent or delay the onset of long-term diabetes-associated complications such as heart disease, kidney failure and nerve damage.
“The A*STAR-Biomicro partnership aims to eliminate this routine by developing an implantable blood glucose monitoring device. Once surgically implanted into the patient, it will automatically monitor and transmit readings wirelessly to an external reader,” according to the press release by A*STAR.
According to statistics from the Diabetic Society of Singapore, one in nine Singaporeans aged 18 to 69 are afflicted with diabetes, which translates to approximately 11.3 per cent of the local population, or more than 400,000 people.
“Technology advancements, coupled with increasing adoption of wireless healthcare devices are optimising patient care. It is encouraging to see Singapore companies capitalising on this market potential and to improve the lives of diabetics globally,” said Executive Director of IME Professor Dim-Lee Kwong.
Source: Channel NewsAsia
Published: 29 Oct 2014
Category: Features, Technology & Devices
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