Responding to two studies published in April in the British Medical Journal which question the role of self-monitoring blood glucose by people with diabetes, Doris-Ann Williams, Director-General of the British In Vitro Diagnostics Association (BIVDA) said:
“Industry welcomes and strongly endorses the views expressed today by both Diabetes UK and the Department of Health. Appropriate use of self-monitoring of blood glucose maintains long-term wellness in people with diabetes and aids the prevention of long term complications such as kidney failure, heart disease and impaired vision. However it is essential that patients are given the necessary understanding through education to use this tool effectively to manage their condition. Anyone with diabetes who has concerns about their health should discuss these with their doctor or diabetes nurse".
Cost to the NHS
The costs of self-monitoring reported are distorted - the studies reported that self-monitoring by people with Type 2 diabetes may not be effective but the quoted expenditure of around £100 million each year on these tests relates to all people with diabetes - an industry expert today calculated that 94% of testing is performed by people with either type 1 diabetes or type 2 who need insulin - for whom self-monitoring is not questioned.Thus in real terms the figures amount to less than £10million. It should also be noted that the findings of this studies can be questioned, other published studies show self-monitoring combined with patient education to be effective for all people with diabetes.
Self-monitoring of blood glucose involves a patient taking a minute drop of their blood by pricking their fingertip and this is then analysed using a portable testing device. The process is quick and results are instant. This allows diabetes patients to check their blood glucose levels in any circumstance, ensuring they have flexibility and freedom in managing their condition.
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