If there’s anything that the technology conscious consumer is missing, it’s a wearable blood glucose monitor! But it’s not the tech savvy that are anticipating its arrival the most, but of course those with diabetes, most of whom are required to prick their finger for a blood sample everyday.

These people are closer to getting their hands on a wrist wearable device that can determine their blood glucose levels without the need for taking any blood samples.

The device, which will be worn like a watch, will use a scientific technique based on changes in light in the blood stream to measure blood glucose levels. The cool thing is that as an addition, it will also be able to let you know how hydrated or dehydrated you are.

So gone will be the days of pricking your finger and squeezing out blood. In the near future a wearable device will be able to tell you your blood glucose levels, and it will still work whether you’re sat down or playing football.

The team in the linked article expect to bring this product to market within 2-3 years, but I have a feeling that somebody else will beat them to it!

Faye Prior (Researcher)

Source

Ozana et al., (2014). Improved noncontact optical sensor for detection of glucose concentration and indication of dehydration level. Biomedical Optics Express, 5, 1926-40.