Early Signs of Diabetes Explored from an Engineering Perspective

Abstract

Undetected diabetes is a global issue, estimated to over 200 million persons affected. Engineering opportunities in capturing early signs of diabetes has a potential due to the complexity to interpret early signs and link it to diabetes. Persons with untreated diabetes are doubled in risk of getting cardiovascular diseases and may also suffer other consequent diseases. In Sweden, approximately 450 thousand have diabetes where 80–90% are of type 2 with 1/4 unaware of it, i.e. approx. 100 thousand. Screening approaches, searching specifically for diabetes in persons not showing symptoms has been initiated with positive results. However, some general drawbacks of screening such as false sense of security are an issue. In this publication, we focus upon in home measurements and empowering of the individual in identifying early signs of diabetes. The methods in this publication are to gather data, evaluate and give suggestion if clinical test to confirm or reject diabetes. In home measurements, education process with companies for innovation possibilities.