Exclusive: How Dexcom's diabetes technology is changing glucose management

Dexcom has introduced new glucose biosensing technology to the Australian market, aiming to provide easy glucose monitoring for people living with Type 2 diabetes.

The company's latest innovation, Dexcom ONE+, is designed to simplify glucose management with real-time data insights and alerts to support better health outcomes.

Samantha Oxenham, National Clinical Education Manager at Dexcom Australia, explained that the company has been a pioneer in glucose biosensing technology for over 25 years. "Dexcom has transformed how people living with diabetes manage and track their glucose levels, empowering them to take control of their health," she said.

Having worked at Dexcom for 15 years, Oxenham has witnessed firsthand how the company's innovations have evolved. "With each new generation and with each new iteration, they completely redefine the technology," she said. "We don't just do small software upgrades – we are constantly working on breakthroughs to make it easier for people to manage their glucose levels every day."

Oxenham said that the transformative impact of these technologies cannot be understated.

"It's nothing short of impressive, and that's why I've been passionate about working here for so long."

A game-changer for people living with Type 2 Diabetes

The Dexcom ONE+ device is a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), a small wearable device that tracks glucose levels 24/7.

The device displays readings on a compatible smartphone or an optional receiver.

"It doesn't just tell you what your glucose level is," Oxenham explained. "It also shows the speed and direction of where those levels are heading, which helps people make proactive decisions about managing their health."

The Dexcom ONE+ provides high and low glucose alerts and eliminates the need for routine finger-prick tests unless the reading does not match a person's symptoms. According to Oxenham, this functionality brings significant benefits. "It means no more finger pricks, and that provides peace of mind. The device is the smallest sensor available on the Australian market with the fastest warm-up time of just 30 minutes," she said.

The data collected by Dexcom devices is uploaded to the Dexcom Clarity app, which is a cloud-based platform allowing healthcare professionals to review glucose patterns and trends.

This data-driven approach improves conversations between patients and healthcare providers and enables more targeted therapy adjustments.

"For clinicians, it means far more efficient workflows," Oxenham said. "It allows them to make better decisions with their patients about managing glucose levels."

Supporting communities

Beyond personal data insights, Dexcom ONE+ allows people living with diabetes to share glucose readings with up to 10 trusted people, such as family members or carers, through Dexcom's Follow app.

"I'm often heard saying a problem shared is a problem halved," Oxenham said. "This is something that must be managed 24/7, and this system allows for better support networks."

The ability to share data remotely means that carers can stay informed even if they are geographically distant. "They can see readings in real time, and if levels are too low, they can make a quick phone call to check on their loved one," she added.

Integration with smartwatches further enhances the system, providing users with immediate glucose readings on their wrist. "The smartwatch integration is designed to make monitoring glucose levels easy and discreet," Oxenham said.

New solutions for those living with Type 1 Diabetes

In addition to Dexcom ONE+, the Dexcom G7 is designed for people living with Type 1 diabetes.

While both products share the same form factor, the G7 includes additional features such as predictive alerts that warn customers of dangerously low glucose levels up to 20 minutes in advance.

"[Alongside Dexcom ONE+,] the Dexcom G7 is our most accurate sensor yet," Oxenham said. "It's the smallest sensor on the Australian market with the shortest warm-up time of up to 30 minutes."

She emphasised the importance of maintaining accessibility for both groups. "People living with diabetes need to manage their glucose levels effectively. That's why both devices are designed to meet those needs," she said.

Calls for greater access to CGM Technology

While the Australian Government currently subsidises CGM technology for people living with Type 1 diabetes, Oxenham stressed the need for improved access for those living with Type 2 diabetes.

"We applaud the Australian Government for its support of Type 1 diabetes patients," Oxenham said. "But there is still work to be done. There is an inequity of access for people living with Type 2 diabetes, which is Australia's fastest-growing health condition."

Oxenham referred to recent statistics from Diabetes Australia, highlighting that 1.2 million Australians currently live with Type 2 diabetes. Alarmingly, 300 Australians are diagnosed with diabetes each day, and this figure is projected to rise to 3.6 million by 2050.

"These figures are extraordinary," she said. "We know that early management and detection are key, and CGM has been shown to improve long-term outcomes. It's important that we work towards better access for all."

Looking towards the future

Oxenham believes the company's ongoing research and development will continue to push the boundaries of diabetes technology.

"Within just a few short months, Dexcom has already brought two new technologies to the Australian market," she said.

"We continue to work on further innovations that will support people living with diabetes."