TENS of thousands of Brits with type 1 diabetes are set to receive artificial pancreases on the NHS in a world-first.
Patients with the condition will be offered the groundbreaking device that could spell an end to daily injections.
GettyTreating diabetes in a woman[/caption]
It continually monitors a person’s blood glucose, then automatically adjusts the amount of insulin given to them through a pump.
Dr Clare Hambling, of NHS England, said: “This transformative technology holds the power to redefine the lives of those with type 1 diabetes.”
Professor Partha Kar, NHS national speciality advisor for diabetes, said: “The national roll out is great news for everyone with type 1 diabetes.
“This futuristic technology not only improves medical care but also enhances the quality of life for those affected.”
Around 220,000 Brits live with type 1 diabetes, including actor James Norton and former Prime Minister Theresa May.
Unlike type 2 diabetes, there is nothing you can do to prevent yourself or others developing type 1 diabetes.
The lifelong condition destroys cells in the pancreas that produce the hormone insulin, which helps control blood sugar levels.
Patients normally have to monitor their blood sugar throughout the day and inject themselves with the hormone to keep levels in check.
The National Institute of Health and Care Excellence last year recommended patients should be offered the “artificial pancreas” systems if they are unable to control their glucose levels.
NHS England piloted the technology — called a Hybrid Closed Loop system — on 835 adults and children with type 1 diabetes and will now start rolling it out to all eligible patients.
Health Minister Andrew Stephenson said: “People living with type 1 diabetes face the constant stress of needing to monitor their blood glucose levels.
“This new technology will ease the burden on patients and allow them to manage their condition more easily.”
What are the symptoms of type 1 diabetes?
Symptoms of type 1 diabetes include:
feeling very thirsty
peeing more than usual, particularly at night
feeling very tired
losing weight without trying
thrush that keeps coming back
blurred vision
cuts and grazes that are not healing
fruity-smelling breath
Type 1 diabetes symptoms can come on quickly, particularly in children.
Source: The NHS