New Nice Guidance
issued - 28 May 2008
The British In Vitro Diagnostics Association (BIVDA) has welcomed guidance issued by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) on the treatment and management of Type 2 Diabetes. The guidance stresses the importance of self-monitoring of blood glucose levels in managing the disease. Alongside patient education, dietary changes, exercise and any necessary medication, self-monitoring of blood glucose is identified as a vital component in helping diabetes patients properly manage their condition.
Commenting on the NICE guidance, Doris-Ann Williams, Director General of BIVDA, said:
“We welcome the new guidance issued by NICE, which encourages the self-monitoring of blood glucose levels by people with diabetes. Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) forms a central part of diabetes management assisting in the control of the disease. When combined with patient education and regular consultation with their doctor, SMBG allows individuals to manage their condition independently, with increased freedom and flexibility.
Technology for blood glucose self-testing has revolutionised diabetes care in recent years. It is a vital tool, empowering patients to monitor their blood glucose levels and take control of their condition. Blood glucose self-testing devices form a central part of diabetes care and disease management as maintaining tight control of blood glucose levels can delay or even prevent the serious complications of diabetes - conditions such as cardiovascular disease, retinopathy and kidney disease.” |