India has one of the largest populations of diabetics and a large percentage of these do not have good control of their glucose levels, according to my company’s past research.
Now Abbott India has launched the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus sensor, its continuous glucose monitor (CGM) for adults and children aged 2 and older, including individuals with gestational diabetes. The sensor is worn on the back of the upper arm for up to 15 days and is activated via a smartphone scan.
Unlike traditional finger-stick tests that only give a single reading, a CGM provides a full picture of a person’s glucose trends throughout the day and night. One can see how meals, workouts, stress, and even sleep impact blood sugar in real time. The system utilizes Bluetooth and Near-Field Communication (NFC) technology to transmit automatic glucose readings every minute directly to a compatible smartphone. Users can view real-time glucose levels, historical trends, and directional arrows without routine fingersticks. The system also includes optional, customizable alarms that automatically alert users to high or low glucose events.
Clinical Efficacy Data
According to the company, clinical data demonstrates that the FreeStyle Libre technology yields the following health outcomes:
Glycemic Control: Reduces HbA1c levels by 0.9% to 1.5% and decreases low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) episodes by up to 43%.
Hospitalization Rates: Cuts overall diabetes-related hospital visits by 66%.
Type 1 Diabetes Risks: Reduces the risk of cardiovascular complications by 78% in individuals with Type 1 diabetes following a severe hypoglycemic event.
Type 2 Diabetes Risks: Lowers the risk of hospitalization for stroke and other diabetes-related complications by 44% in insulin-treated individuals with Type 2 diabetes.
Connected Health Tools
The device integrates into a digital health ecosystem to facilitate caregiving and clinical management:
LibreLinkUp: A mobile app that automatically transmits glucose readings and alerts to parents and caregivers.
LibreView: A secure, cloud-based diabetes management system that allows users to share glucose insights directly with healthcare professionals for clinical evaluation.
CGMs were first designed for people living with diabetes, but today they’re also being used by those looking to improve their overall metabolic health, manage prediabetes, or simply make smarter choices about diet and lifestyle.
