FDA approval of artificial pancreas system marks one of the most significant advances in T1D care to date
Today is a momentous and life-changing occasion for the type 1 diabetes (T1D) community. The FDA announced approval of the Medtronic MiniMed 670G hybrid closed-loop system, the first device ever approved to automate the dosing of insulin to reduce high blood sugar levels. This and other artificial pancreas systems in development will dramatically improve the health and quality of life for many people living with T1D. Read more about this new device here.
This tremendous news would not have been possible without the support of the T1D community, which has fueled JDRF’s strategic funding and advocacy efforts to accelerate artificial pancreas research for more than a decade.
This artificial pancreas (AP) system includes an insulin pump, a sensor and a control algorithm to provide automated insulin delivery, making it simpler to maintain a healthy glucose range both day and night. The system is fully integrated between the pump and sensor, with no need for a separate smartphone or continuous glucose monitor (CGM). JDRF supported research that laid the groundwork for this AP system, as well as other systems currently in development, several of which are expected to reach the market in the next several years.
JDRF applauds the FDA’s decision and acknowledges the many partners and supporters across the T1D community who have contributed their time, energy and financial support to make this possible. Together, we have made it to this major milestone in T1D treatment. To learn more about today’s announcement and JDRF’s plans to ensure that these life-changing devices are broadly accessible until the day we meet our ultimate goal to cure and prevent T1D,
I have been waiting for the artificial pancreas (AP) system since I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in 2006 at age five. Of course, the ultimate objective is for a cure to be discovered, but this vital innovation will definitely make life a lot easier for people with T1D (not to mention the tremendous health benefits)! Thank you to JDRF for helping to raise the funds and awareness necessary to support the research that made the AP system a reality.
I cannot wait to start using the new Medtronic MiniMed 670G and look forward to the many other developments in T1D care on the horizon. Personally, I hope the next advancement includes a system that requires only one needle insertion site for both blood glucose monitoring and insulin delivery (all-in-one sensor and insulin infusion). I plan to continue advocating for JDRF in order to support this incredible organization’s continuing efforts to promote AP research and development, and I will not stop until a cure is found!
I was five when I became diabetic in 1958. Been waiting for this day too.
Wow, what a coincidence! I am sure you have seen a series of radical improvements in T1D care through the years. This breakthrough will change a lot of lives for the better!