Device to keep kids with diabetes safe


22 October 2007 09:10

Youngsters with diabetes are among the first in the country to be offered new mobile phone technology to help monitor blood glucose levels.

Children in Norfolk with Type 1 Diabetes are getting the chance to see how mobile phones which are enabled with Bluetooth, which allows information to be sent wirelessly between mobiles, digital cameras and computers, can be used to keep a check on their blood glucose levels and alert parents and doctors if levels become too high or low.

The number of children in Norfolk being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, whereby the pancreas stops producing insulin and makes blood sugar levels difficult to control, has increased by 34pc in recent years. The only way to manage the glucose levels is with daily injections of insulin.

Now the children's diabetes team at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital has teamed up with medical company t+ Medical to be the first to offer the free Bluetooth service to youngsters in the region. Parents and children were given a demonstration of how the software works in a special presentation last week.

A special adapter is fitted to the normal blood glucose meter which when activated will send the results, wirelessly to a Bluetooth enabled mobile, and to a secure database system at the hospital. Parents can also access the readings via a special website.

The system can even send text alerts for blood glucose results which are dangerously high or low.

Emily Fairhurst, 12, from Attleborough, who was shown how to use the new device, said: “I think it will be good and easy for me to use.”

Her mother, Samantha Fiddy, said: “It is reassuring to know we could see Emily's blood sugar levels, especially if she was away on a school trip.”

Consultant paediatrician Dr Nandu Thalange said: “Maintaining good blood glucose control is very important and this technology helps us access blood test results and take action accordingly.”