Project Background
Diabetes is a growing global health issue. According to the International Diabetes Federation, 540 million people worldwide were living with diabetes in 2021, and this number is projected to increase to 783 million by 2045 [1]. Managing diabetes often involves balancing blood sugar levels, which can lead to complications like hypoglycemia, a condition caused by low blood sugar. Hypoglycemia can range from mild symptoms such as shakiness and sweating to severe consequences like seizures or loss of consciousness if untreated. A particularly concerning type is nocturnal hypoglycemia, which occurs during sleep and poses unique risks because individuals are unable to recognize or respond to early warning signs.
Nocturnal hypoglycemia is common among people with diabetes, particularly those on insulin therapy, and can disrupt the body’s natural responses to low blood sugar. The condition is dangerous because it often goes undetected, delaying treatment and increasing the likelihood of severe outcomes. While tools like continuous glucose monitors have improved blood sugar tracking, they cannot independently address nocturnal hypoglycemia, underscoring the need for solutions that proactively treat low blood sugar levels during sleep.
Auriva Health, founded by Dr. Melinda Chu, is dedicated to improving the lives of people managing diabetes. By focusing on at-home solutions for nocturnal hypoglycemia, Auriva Health aims to empower individuals to manage their condition more effectively and safely, enhancing their overall quality of life.
Need Statement
There is a need for a drug injection device that enables individuals with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes to promptly stabilize blood sugar levels during nighttime hypoglycemic episodes, thus reducing the possibility of brain damage and leading to long-term glycemic control.
Project Scope
Individuals with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes frequently experience around half of their hypoglycemic episodes during the night while sleeping, a period where they are unable to self-monitor blood sugar levels. There is a need for a drug injection device that can rapidly stabilize blood sugar levels during nocturnal hypoglycemia. The proposed device will incorporate a method or device capable of measuring accurate blood-glucose levels throughout the night. Designed to be discreet and lightweight, it will offer comfort during sleep. Additionally, the device will integrate seamlessly with mobile devices for data storage and processing, providing a user-friendly interface with an alert system. Upon project completion, a functional prototype, including the software interface, detailed models, drawings, and complete documentation, will be delivered to the client by April 26, 2025.
References
[1] Facts & figures. International Diabetes Federation. (2024, May 7). https://idf.org/about-diabetes/diabetes-facts-figures/