So, it’s been more than a few years since I reported how parents were hacking into their children’s glucose monitor to create what some would love to call an artificial pancreas. But, I can guarantee you the combining a pump, glucose monitor, smartphone, and a Bluetooth computer may keep our kids safe- but an artificial pancreas, it ain’t.
But, things are getting better (or more sophisticated…). The do-it-yourselfers have an online forum , where designs, improvements, and advice are shared freely. There’s even a Facebook group (Looped). And, once the system is completed and adopted for use, the kids need fewer pinpricks and experience fewer adverse events, since their blood sugar is pretty much under control. The cost to build this DIY device is under $ 500- and might even be doable for half that.
The claims are that some 2000 folks use these biohacked devices. That’s not much, since there are 1.3 million folks suffering from Type 1 diabetes just in the US. (This biohacked device concept lacks the potential for those who suffer from Type 2 diabetes- which accounts for more than 400 million folks world-wide.)
The other problem is that there really isn’t any device from reputable manufacturers like Apple, Eli Lilly, or Medtronic. (Medtronic is the “big boy” in the diabetes market. And, they offer a device that is significantly more expensive that the hacked unit- running some $ 7K. Note that even at this price, some 100,000 folks are using it! Not kids though- because it lacks such approval and doesn’t let the user customize the blood sugar levels desired.)
The reason why the biohack exists in the first place is because insulin pump manufacturers have not secured the wireless connections in their devices. (OK. Medtronic has closed the loophole- so their pumps can’t be hacked easily- but since they use wireless connections to collect data, I’m not certain that we can’t really access the device. But, most folks have switched to the insulin pump from Roche Holding AG.)
Another key part of the puzzle is the algorithm needed to deliver the proper insulin doses. That’s what is part of the “Loop”, the app model that works on the iPhone- and the RileyLink (a computer with a Bluetooth connection.) The RileyLink is built by a firm in Kentucky (and they’ve produced almost all the 2000 units that made the biohack possible.) Oh, yeah- there’s now an app for Android phones, so folks aren’t stuck with getting an iPhone.
Many parents – who’ve never built a computer system- set up the system, but then wisely use water and a bowl or napkin (instead of injecting the insulin into their child), to make sure all the connections are secure and the unit responds to the child’s glucose levels (from the monitor they use all the time.)
However, the biohack still serves a critical function. Parents don’t have to check the blood sugar levels of their kids thrice or four times a night and deliver insulin, if needed.
That good night sleep only comes- for now- when the hacked pump and computer system is created.
A former manager had a wife and three children with “type 1” diabetes. This was a long time ago, but maybe he has grandchildren. funny how the Internet is like fire – it destroys (3D printed guns) but can also make lives better.
I remember back when the “internet” was being created. We worried about how it could be used. It’s like all technology- it is amoral. Whether the technology becomes remembered for its morality or its immorality is totally up to those who use/manipulate the technology.
Thanks for the visit and comment, Alana!