The quest for non-invasive glucose monitoring: Current trends and future directions

The quest for non-invasive glucose monitoring: Current trends and future directions

Managing blood glucose is essential for millions worldwide, particularly those with diabetes. For years, glucose monitoring has primarily relied on finger-prick tests, but Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems have recently emerged as a more advanced, minimally invasive solution. CGM provides continuous, real-time glucose tracking, making diabetes management more convenient and effective. However, the high cost, environmental concerns, and limited adoption in type 2 diabetes are driving the search for new solutions.

The market is now seeing a shift toward non-invasive glucose monitoring technologies that offer the promise of even greater comfort, accessibility, and affordability. These technologies aim to measure glucose levels without penetrating the skin, using methods such as optical sensors, transdermal patches, and even tears. While still in development, the potential for these non-invasive solutions to revolutionise health monitoring is substantial.

Currently, major CGM manufacturers like Abbott and Dexcom dominate the market, focusing on expanding adoption across type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as new markets in health, wellness, and athletics. However, they face mounting pressure to reduce costs and improve the sustainability of their devices. The demand for CGM systems that are thinner, more discreet, and made from sustainable materials is pushing companies to innovate not only in glucose sensing but also in the materials and manufacturing processes they use.

Meanwhile, new entrants in the non-invasive monitoring space are developing exciting alternatives. Devices like Nemaura Medical’s SugarBEAT® and LifePlus’ smartwatch offer non-invasive, continuous glucose tracking without needles. These innovations have the potential to make glucose monitoring more accessible to diabetics and health-conscious individuals who want to monitor their bodies without the discomfort of invasive methods.

However, accuracy remains a significant challenge for non-invasive technologies, with many yet to match the precision of traditional CGM systems. The full report available below dives deeper into these emerging technologies, exploring their potential and the hurdles they must overcome to become viable alternatives to CGM.

Interested in learning more? Download the full white paper on the latest trends and innovations in non-invasive glucose monitoring by filling out the form below.