Diabetics can now take advantage of a multitude of apps and devices available for download to help them manage their condition on the move. Emerging technologies are allowing diabetics to conveniently and accurately monitor their conditions while maintaining a normal lifestyle.
The iBGStar, which is available for the iPhone and iPod touch, actually uses a blood glucose meter that enables users to see test results in real time.
The device is the brainchild of French company Sanofi-aventis, in partnership with AgaMatrix, and was recently introduced at the 46th European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) in Stockholm, Sweden.
The device and app are expected to be launched in early 2011. The iBGStar device is estimated to cost $80 while the app will be free to download from Apple's App Store.
The iBGStar has been hailed as the first attachment for an iPhone and iPod touch that actually doubles as a stand-alone medical device.
The device attaches to the dock connector and uses the iDevice to display results and can be used as a blood glucose meter without having to be connected.
When the device is connected it sends data to the iBGStar Diabetes Manager app so the user can easily keep tabs on blood glucose levels and insulin doses. This information can also be easily shared with physicians, if required.
The compact iBGStar plugs into the iPhone/iPod touch displaying results on a full color, touch screen, allowing for quick and easy viewing. In conjunction, the iBGStar has many useful features including alerts, feedback and reminders. The iBGStar also offers a telephone hotline and other support services for the purchaser.
As a standalone device, the iBGStar has a display screen, battery and and 300 test memory. It uses a patented Dynamic Electrochemistry which enables accurate and fast blood glucose readings without requiring coding.
“Our patient-centric approach means we truly understand the challenges faced by people with diabetes, explained Pierre Chancel, senior Vice President of Global Diabetes Division for Sanofi-aventis. “This generation of innovative blood glucose monitors is key to making diabetes care fit into the everyday lives of people with diabetes and potentially improving their confidence in managing their condition. It is an important step toward our goal of delivering seamless connectivity between diagnostics, treatment and monitoring."
Source: http://en.sanofi-aventis.com/binaries/20100921_EASD_BGM_en_tcm28-29207.pdf