With the evolving technological advancement, the artificial pancreas system stands out as a ray of hope for millions. This medical technology has changed the landscape of diabetes management, providing a transformative way for people to manage their blood sugar levels. This set of artificial pancreases, also known as closed-hoop system or hybrid closed-hoop system, is a cutting-edge device made to resemble a healthy pancreas.  

However, despite its claims of better health benefits and convenience, debate continues over its disadvantages and implications. Examining this innovative technology’s pros and cons helps in eradicating future complications leading to diabetes. 

What is a Pancreas? 

The pancreas is an organ in the upper belly essential for blood glucose management and digestion. It secretes glucagon and insulin, the two hormones that stabilize blood glucose levels and keep it from fluctuating, too high or too low.  

Following a meal, when your blood glucose rises, the pancreatic beta cells release insulin which permits the body to consume and store carbohydrates, lowering blood glucose levels. The pancreas releases glucagon when blood glucose levels fall, which happens after an extended period of exercise or fasting. Your body releases glucose stored to raise blood levels and power your body’s function.  

What is an artificial pancreas? 

When someone has type 1 diabetes, the body stops creating enough insulin. In this situation, insulin is injected to stabilize the blood glucose levels which ensures that all the cells receive the energy from glucose and function properly. Type 1 diabetes patients also need to modify insulin dosage to maintain the blood glucose levels to avoid further complications, such as damage to kidneys and eyes, heart problems, strokes and amputations (due to reduced flow blood). 

Diabetes can be controlled with a hybrid closed-loop system, commonly referred to as an artificial pancreas. Artificial pancreas systems replicate how human pancreas naturally controls blood glucose levels by using cutting-edge man-made technology to automatic insulin supply. 

Pros and Cons of Artificial Pancreas 

Even after the discovery of insulin and artificial pancreas, one still wants to know about how it is beneficial and how it can affect the body. Here are some pros and cons of this technology: 

Pros

• Artificial pancreas devices are made to track blood glucose levels continuously and modify insulin dosage as necessary. It ensures better control of blood sugar level. 
• Individuals who rely on artificial pancreas system find it easier to manage diabetes. It also reduces the need for ongoing supervision and corrections. 
• This technology continues to adapt and change itself according to the demand evolving continuously to assist in better health and well-being. 

Cons 

• The high cost of this technology may prevent many individuals from receiving it. Cost and insurance coverage continues to be a major obstacle. 
• Despite continuous improvements, artificial pancreas systems still encounter mechanical hurdles, software bugs and sensor accuracy. 
• Regardless of how easy this system makes it to track diabetes, users still exercise caution and learn its usage beforehand. Calibration errors or misinterpreting system signals can affect the system’s efficacy.  

The artificial pancreas has been proved as a milestone in diabetes management and improving glucose control by reducing patient’s burden. The system offers so many advancements and a better-quality life. However, it poses many challenges like cost, technical, reliability and regulatory barriers. These should be overcome for widespread adoption and effectiveness in healthcare.