Health officials in the United States have issued a warning regarding the potential health risks faced by patients who use smartphone apps to manage their diabetes. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received reports of users missing critical medical alerts from their phones, leading to instances of dangerously low blood sugar levels and, in some cases, fatalities.
The FDA's caution pertains to a growing market of wearable devices that monitor patients' sugar levels or administer insulin automatically. Many of these devices are controlled through smartphone apps. However, the FDA highlights that certain phone settings, such as notification pauses or changes in audio sources, could result in patients missing vital updates.
Courtney Lias, a division director at the FDA, emphasized the potential harm that could arise if these devices do not function as expected due to hardware or software alterations. With approximately 37 million Americans living with diabetes, ensuring the proper functioning of these devices is crucial.
How to Ensure Proper Functioning of Glucose-Monitoring Apps
The FDA offers the following recommendations to users:
- Disable automatic updates on smartphones until compatibility with diabetes apps is confirmed.
- After connecting a smartphone to a new accessory, verify that app alerts are still being received clearly.
- Regularly check smartphone notification settings to prevent any unintended changes.
While there are thousands of health apps available to users, the FDA primarily regulates those that pose significant risks if they malfunction, such as apps monitoring critical medical readings. The agency is engaging with manufacturers to ensure that smartphone alert configurations are thoroughly assessed before patient use.
It is essential for individuals managing diabetes through smartphone apps to remain vigilant about their device settings and ensure that they are receiving crucial notifications to maintain their health and well-being.
