Wednesday 14 January 2009

Blood Glucose target ranges - new information for self testers

Diabetes UK has updated its blood glucose target ranges for people with diabetes, following recommendations from the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE).
In November 2007, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) suggested changes to the post-meal target ranges.

In 2008, NICE published their guidelines for Type 2 diabetes, again with changes to the target ranges.
As part of Diabetes UK’s policy to continually review and update advice for people with diabetes, we have now reviewed our recommendations in line with NICE.

Here are the new ranges

Self monitoring of blood glucose levels UK

Self-monitoring of blood glucose is a beneficial part of diabetes management. As part of the day-to-day routine it can inform of necessary lifestyle and treatment choices as well as help to monitor for symptoms of hypo- or hyperglycaemia, or signs of long-term complications.
Self monitoring supported by education is therefore one of the key tools available to people with diabetes to enable them to self manage effectively. Essential to this is the person being able to discuss the purpose of self monitoring, how to interpret and act upon results.
It is important that the blood glucose levels being aimed for are as near normal as possible (that is in the range of those of a person who does not have diabetes).
These are:
3.5 - 5.5mmols/l before meals
less than 8mmols/l, 2 hours after meals.There are many different opinions about the ideal range to aim for. As this is so individual to each person, the target levels must be agreed between the person and their diabetes team.
The target blood glucose ranges below are indicated as a guide.
Children with Type 1 diabetes (NICE 2004)
Before meals: 4-8mmols/L
Two hours after meals: less than 10mmols/L
Adults with Type 1 diabetes (NICE 2004)
Before meals: 4- 7mmols/L
2 hours after meals: less than 9mmols/L
Type 2 diabetes (NICE 2008)
Before meals: 4-7mmol/L
Two hours after meals: less than 8.5mmols/L

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