Comparing Points in Target Range Assessed by Blood Glucose Monitoring Using a Vacuum-based Lancing Device and Conventional Lancing Devices

Abstract

Background: Time-in-range, the recently introduced metric is effective with CGM devices. Several reasons such as inaccessibility, out-of-pocket expense etc. challenge the wider acceptance of CGM devices globally. In this scenario a similar metric termed point-in-range (PIR) was introduced which can be calculated based on the frequent readings from blood glucose meters. Aim: The current study aims to compare the points in range in people with type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes using Genteel, a commercially available lancer that applies vacuum after lancing and a non-vacuum conventional lancing device. Methods: Data for the study was retrieved from an open-label, 24-week cross-over trial and analyzed retrospectively. The cohort included both patients with type 1 diabetes (n=58; age= 17.70 ± 10.18) and type 2 diabetes. The participants used Genteel for 12 weeks and then switched to a conventional lancing device for additional 12 weeks or vice versa. PIR was calculated and compared when using a Genteel and using a conventional lancer. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS software, version 16, and a significance threshold of P<0.05 was used. Results: Selected individuals with T1D, showed significantly higher frequency of blood glucose level falling within the range and significantly lower frequency of blood glucose level falling above range (PAR) while using Genteel in comparison to the conventional lancing devices. In addition, a significant reduction in HbA1c levels (from 8.94 ± 1.77% to 8.25 ± 1.67%) was observed among the subjects with T1D who used the Genteel device. No change in the frequency of blood glucose level falling within the range was observed in patients with type 2 diabetes. Conclusion: Painless glucose monitoring facilitated by Genteel may have contributed to the increased monitoring frequency which in turn contributed to higher PIR, lower PAR and significant reduction in the HbA1c.