NHS to trial “artificial pancreas” for patients with type 1 diabetes

Up to 1000 patients with type 1 diabetes will be fitted with an “artificial pancreas” in a landmark trial, NHS England has announced.

The “closed loop” technology automatically balances blood sugar levels by constantly measuring glucose levels and delivering insulin directly to the bloodstream, when needed, through a pump. It is designed to offer better glucose control, reduce the risk of hypoglycaemia, and remove the need for finger prick tests.

Announcing the trial at the NHS Confederation’s virtual conference on 15 April, NHS England’s chief executive Simon Stevens said the technology marked a new …