NHS trialling new artificial pancreas

Nearly 1,000 adults and children in England with type 1 diabetes have received an artificial pancreas.

A pilot study involves 35 NHS diabetes centres and will be the first nationwide test of this technnology in real-world settings. The hybrid close loop technology monitors blood glucose, with the correct amount of insulin being delivered through a pump.

The continuous glucose monitor is placed under the skin to send blood sugar readings to a device such as mobile phone or to the insulin pump. This system can negate finger prick tests, as well prevent hypoglycaemic and hyperglycaemia attacks.

Currently the NHS in England spends around £10bn a year on all types of diabetes, about 10% of its entire budget.

Professor Partha Kar, NHS national speciality advisor for diabetes, says, 'It is not very far away from the holy grail of a fully automated system, where people with type 1 diabetes can get on with their lives without worrying about glucose levels or medication.'