The Evolution of Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring: A Personal Journey

In the late 20th century, the landscape of diabetes management was about to change dramatically, thanks to the determination of a few passionate individuals. One such individual was a pioneer who, despite facing numerous challenges, tirelessly advocated for the adoption of blood glucose self-monitoring devices. This journey began with a detailed article outlining the health benefits of these devices, which eventually garnered attention from industry professionals, including Charles Suther of Ames Division of Miles Laboratories.

Suther's support was significant; he was one of the few to encourage this new venture and arranged for a medical writer to help refine the article for submission to various medical journals. Unfortunately, repeated rejection letters followed, highlighting a common theme in the medical community: resistance to change, especially when it contradicted established orthodoxies. Many physicians and journals dismissed the notion of self-monitoring as unnecessary, questioning the practicality and patient interest in such devices.

Undeterred by this skepticism, the advocate immersed themselves in the diabetes community, attending conventions and engaging with lay organizations. Despite the mediocre success in gaining traction among healthcare professionals, Suther continued to champion the cause, distributing copies of the unpublished article to university research centers across the country. The backlash from the medical establishment proved formidable, leading to delays in the commercialization of blood glucose meters.

Despite the challenges, the advocate's persistence paid off. By 1977, with Suther's backing, they initiated groundbreaking university-sponsored studies that successfully demonstrated the value of blood glucose self-monitoring in reversing early complications in diabetic patients. These studies led to the first symposia on the topic, further establishing the importance of self-monitoring in diabetes care.

As the 1980s approached, the tide began to turn. Interest in blood glucose self-monitoring was growing, especially outside the United States, with countries like Israel and England leading the way. Finally, in 1980, manufacturers began to release blood glucose meters for patient use, marking a pivotal moment in diabetes management. The journey from skepticism to acceptance showcased the profound impact that advocacy, research, and collaboration can have on healthcare innovation.