Reimagining CGM Systems for Preventative Prediabetes Care – Buzz CGM System

Abstract

Pediatrics and Family Health (The Ohio State University Denman Undergraduate Research Forum)Prediabetes and type 2 diabetes are becoming increasingly prevalent within the United States. However, research shows a lack of education about preventative treatments as well as a lack of motivation among patients to adopt those treatments. The Buzz Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System works to help prediabetics understand their condition, learn how to manage it, and acts as a motivational tool to promote proactive management of the disease. Research for this project began with a prompt from Battelle with a focus on exploring potential applications for implantable systems. From there I began secondary research looking into different types of media, existing technologies, as well as different conditions for application. After significant secondary research, I began looking further into diabetes. I completed surveys with responses from over 100 diabetic patients. After the surveys, I conducted multiple interviews with diabetics, therapists, and healthcare workers. With the information collected from the surveys and interviews, I run multiple formative assessments to test my findings and ideas for possible interventions. Through that research, I concluded that there is a lack of education as well as a lack of motivation among prediabetic and type 2 patients with respect to preventative treatments. Based on the insights I discovered through this research, I designed the system called Buzz. Buzz has both physical and digital components that work hand in hand. The reusable applicator was designed with sustainability in mind, and generates less waste than currently available products. The transmitter worn by the patient is equipped with an e-ink display controlled from the Buzz app, and displays graphics to express the patient’s style. The Buzz app also allows a user to view live glucose levels, set goals, earn rewards, customize the e-ink display, and interact with friends and other members of the prediabetic community. Buzz - take the sting out of prediabetes!Battelle Memorial InstituteNo embargoAcademic Major: Industrial Desig