150,000 diabetics to get an ‘artificial pancreas’ on NHS

MORE than 150,000 Britons with type 1 diabetes will be given an ‘artificial pancreas’ that marks the end of a lifetime of painful finger-prick blood tests and insulin injections.

The NHS use of the gadgets – a world first – has been hailed a ‘landmark moment’ for tackling the debilitating condition.

For those with type 1 diabetes, their pancreas does not produce enough insulin – a hormone that regulates the amount of sugar, or glucose, in the blood. Without it the sugar level can become so high it triggers serious health problems in the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart. It can also be fatal.

The artificial pancreas – known as a hybrid closedloop system – is worn on the body and constantly monitors how much insulin is needed to keep the patient’s blood sugar levels steady, which is then automatically delivered via a pump.

NHS England has given £2.5million to local health authorities to start identifying patients who will benefit during the five-year programme, with around 152,000 people expected to be eligible. Last night diabetes charities said it was ‘ incredibly exciting’ for patients. Colette Marshall, of Diabetes UK, said: ‘Diabetes is a tough and relentless condition, but these systems make a significant, life- changing difference, improving both the overall health and quality of life for people with diabetes. This really is a landmark moment and we’ll be working with the NHS and others to ensure a fair rollout that reaches people as quickly as possible.’

Last year, the NHS watchdog, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice), recommended offering the new devices to those with diabetes not adequately controlled by their current insulin pump or glucose monitor.

It agreed with NHS England that all children and young diabetics, women who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, and those who already have an insulin pump, will be the first to be offered a hybrid closed-loop system.

Professor Partha Kar, the NHS England national speciality adviser for diabetes, said: ‘This technology not only improves medical care but also enhances the quality of life for those affected.’

‘A life-changing difference’