Preferences of type 1 diabetes individuals for continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system features

Introduction
Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems have become a key tool in diabetes therapy, enabling patients to monitor glucose levels in real-time. This study aimed to identify the most important features of CGM systems for people with diabetes (PwD).

Material and methods
A survey conducted by a research team consisting of diabetologists, psychologists, and diabetic patients was addressed to PwD to explore their preferences for CGM systems. The study was conducted from March 24 to April 15, 2023. Study group consisted of Facebook users of forums related to diabetology and CGM systems. Also, PwD or their caregivers, who attended appointments at the diabetic clinic of Upper Silesian Child Health Centre in Katowice, Poland, were included. A total of 498 correctly completed surveys were collected, and data were analyzed in terms of financial aspects, sensor replacement frequency, calibration, compatibility with other devices, notifications, and system size.

Results
According to the results, financial structure of CGM systems users varied, with parents and younger patients more likely to choose higher monthly expenses (56.2%). A preference was noted for sensor replacement every 14 days (59.4%) and calibration-free systems (75.7%). The system was highly preferred for integration with smartphone apps (95.2%) and compatibility with insulin pumps (65.3%). In addition, notifications of current glucose levels were considered a key feature of a CGM system, with most users preferring glucose variability alerts (96.8%).

Conclusions
Patients select CGM systems based on their personal needs and preferences, prioritizing features, such as user-friendliness, smartphone compatibility, sensor lifespan, and ability to share data with caregivers. Also, cost, design, and clinical benefits influence their choices.