Abbott Diabetes Device Linked to Reduced Heart-Related Hospitalizations
New studies indicate that Abbott's FreeStyle Libre continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is linked to fewer hospital admissions for cardiovascular disease among people with diabetes. This marks the first CGM technology shown to have this connection.
Abbott Laboratories has released new study findings that associate its FreeStyle Libre continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system with a significant reduction in hospitalizations due to cardiovascular disease for individuals with diabetes. This development positions the technology as the first CGM to demonstrate this particular benefit for heart health.
The studies suggest that Libre technology was linked to a 78% decrease in hospital admissions for cardiovascular disease among patients with Type 1 diabetes. Additionally, a reduction in heart-related hospitalizations was observed in individuals with Type 2 diabetes who are on insulin therapy.
These findings, if confirmed, could represent a significant advancement in diabetes care. Diabetes is a well-established risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, substantially increasing the likelihood of developing such conditions. While the link between Type 2 diabetes and heart disease is widely recognized, awareness of cardiac complications in Type 1 diabetes may be lower.
The FreeStyle Libre system utilizes a small sensor worn on the upper arm to track glucose levels continuously, providing users with real-time data. This allows for better diabetes management and the potential prevention of complications, including those impacting heart health. Abbott reports that over 7 million people worldwide are currently using Libre technology.