Hello everyone!
At present, we are observing a growing trend in the use of glucose sensors not only by people with diabetes, but also by healthy individuals, largely influenced by public characters and 'influencers'.Although this practice may seem an innovative way to control personal health, it also exposes associated risks and implications of inappropriate use.
Glucose sensors, such as those used by people with diabetes, are designed to monitor interstitial glucose levels and help the precise management of the disease.However, their popularization among the general public has led people without diabetes to use them to control their diet or to lose weight, a trend that is not only medically unnecessary but potentially dangerous.
Dr. Cristina Tejera Pérez, specialist in endocrinology and nutrition, warns that these devices are not validated for people without diabetes.Inappropriate use can lead to an unhealthy obsession with glucose levels, promoting eating disorders such as carbophobia, irrational fear of consuming carbohydrates.In addition, an excessive approach to glucose peaks can result in psychological discomfort and erroneous dietary decisions, since glucose values in healthy people can be very different and are influenced by numerous factors.
It is worrying that this trend has also contributed to the shortage of essential medicines for people with diabetes, due to the purchase and use of these products by those who seek to lose weight.This is not only a public health problem but also a significant ethical issue.
As a society, we need to be aware of these risks.It is essential that 'influencers' and public figures exercise their influence in a responsible way, avoiding promoting health practices not based on scientific evidence.In addition, health professionals must be prepared to educate and counteract myths, offering clear and precise information both in consultations and public platforms.
Finally, to ensure that people with diabetes continue to have access to these essential devices, we should consider measures such as requiring a medical prescription for the purchase of glucose sensors.This would help ensure that those who really need them can get them without difficulty.
I invite everyone to reflect on the impact of our decisions and to find reliable information, preferably of scientific societies and patient associations, before adopting or promoting medical technologies outside their approved context.
Greetings,