PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — A device is improving the health of children with diabetes.
The official name is a hybrid closed-loop system, but it is better known as an artificial pancreas. It can be used for diabetics, and the system has an insulin pump, a continuous glucose monitor and software designed to deliver insulin based on those numbers.
Until recently, the artificial pancreas has not been studied in kids between the ages of 1 and 7, but many children in this age group are very vulnerable to changes in blood sugar levels. In fact, high levels can impact brain development.
The hope is that the artificial pancreas may play a more important role. Studies continue to look at benefits versus risks as attempts are being made to increase the availability of the artificial pancreas.
KYW Newsradio's Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.
