Comparative Carbon Footprint Study of Self-Monitoring Vs. Continuous Monitoring of Blood Glucose

Climate change is an increasingly important problem, and efficient mitigation requires actions in all fields. While the impact of individual medical devices is small, the total impact of all the devices is large, and their use is also growing with the increasing elderly population. Therefore, it is urgent that this study improves knowledge of the impacts of the production and use of medical devices to find ways to decrease them. This study examines the carbon footprint of two prevalent blood glucose monitoring methods for diabetes management: self-monitoring of blood glucose and continuous glucose monitoring systems. Using cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment, the carbon footprint of six different devices across both techniques is evaluated. Components of these devices are disassembled, weighed, and the different plastic parts are chemically analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to accurately quantify their material composition. The results of this study show that the carbon footprint of self-monitoring devices is generally lower compared to continuous glucose monitoring devices, unless the testing frequency of the glucose level is higher than normal, or the device is used for shorter than average periods. The primary contributors to the carbon footprint of self-monitoring devices are disposable strips and lancets. Regarding the continuous method, a major part of the carbon footprint is attributed to the plastic material and the instruction leaflet. This research provides important insights for product manufacturers, policymakers, healthcare providers, and individuals with diabetes, for more environmentally conscious choices in diabetes management technologies.