Earring monitors blood sugar levels in real-time

The wearable provides discrete glucose tracking by eliminating the need for daily blood draws

Spotted: Designed explicitly to help younger people more consistently manage their Type-1 diabetes, the Sense Glucose Earring is a small wearable that provides continuous blood glucose monitoring. Designer Tyra Kozlow recognised the need for a product that integrated well with the lives of oft-connected teens in a discreet manner, that did not call undue attention to their condition. Available in a choice of colours, the Sense earring uses high-frequency radio waves and runs via rechargeable battery power.

By eliminating the need for frequent daily finger pricks to check the level of sugar in the blood, the earring makes it easier for younger people to manage the condition and reduces the overall discomfort. Readings are sent to the accompanying app through Bluetooth, and wearers are sent alerts depending on the data. By capturing information over long periods of time, trends become noticeable, further strengthening the ability of wearers and healthcare providers to manage care.

Currently a proof of concept, the smart jewellery piece appears to have significant potential for improving the management of a difficult long-term condition. The earring was one of the finalists in the 2020 Global Grad Show, a showcase for design and technology students working to address social and environmental challenges.

Diabetes affects many aspects of the lives of sufferers, and other innovations Springwise has spotted that are helping to make the management of the disease easier include insulin in pill form and eye drops that help prevent retina damage.

Explore more: Health & Wellbeing Innovations | Computing & Tech Innovations