Preprint Review Version 2 Preserved in Portico This version is not peer-reviewed

Innovative Solution or Cause for Concern? The Use of Continuous Glucose Monitors in People Not Living with Diabetes: A Narrative Review.

Version 1 : Received: 26 September 2023 / Approved: 27 September 2023 / Online: 29 September 2023 (10:22:43 CEST)
Version 2 : Received: 31 January 2024 / Approved: 1 February 2024 / Online: 1 February 2024 (08:32:33 CET)

How to cite: Oganesova, Z.; Pemberton, J.; Brown, A. Innovative Solution or Cause for Concern? The Use of Continuous Glucose Monitors in People Not Living with Diabetes: A Narrative Review.. Preprints 2023, 2023092075. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202309.2075.v2 Oganesova, Z.; Pemberton, J.; Brown, A. Innovative Solution or Cause for Concern? The Use of Continuous Glucose Monitors in People Not Living with Diabetes: A Narrative Review.. Preprints 2023, 2023092075. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202309.2075.v2

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) poses a significant public health challenge. Prioritising its prevention is essential. With the growing interest in wearable health technologies continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMs) have expanded their scope, transitioning from exclusive use in diabetes management to lifestyle enhancement for individuals without diabetes. While CGMs primarily target glycaemic stabilization, their potential role in mitigating noncommunicable conditions, including T2DM, warrants exploration. This review examines the regulation of CGMs and critically assesses the purported benefits of CGMs for individuals without diabetes, as presented in the 'health and wellness' sector: (1) early dysglycaemia detection through glucose variability observation; (2) refining glycaemic control by tailoring nutrition according to postprandial glucose response; and (3) promoting and fine-tuning physical activity based on instantaneous data feedback. We find a lack of compelling evidence for the utility of CGMs in PNLD, including accuracy, data analysis and interpretation metrics, and user acceptability markedly under-researched. A paucity of research exists on the unanticipated negative consequences of CGM usage, such as obsessive symptom tracking and potential onset of disordered eating, like orthorexia. Given the increasing adoption of CGMs by individuals without diabetes, this review underscores the need of addressing these research gaps to ensure safety and reliability of CGMs in novel contexts. We emphasise the importance of refining CGM regulation in the UK, particularly when considering its ‘off-label’ use. Marrying robust scientific evidence with effective regulation is pivotal in fortifying the coherence, equity, and effectiveness of diabetes prevention initiatives, while protecting the wellbeing of CGM users.

Keywords

Continuous Glucose Monitor; People not living with diabetes; Regulations

Subject

Public Health and Healthcare, Other

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