Active not recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

The Use of the Dexcom G6® in Commercial Pilots With Insulin-treated Diabetes

This study is for commercial pilots with diabetes who need to take insulin. It investigates a new approach to managing blood sugar during flights and in everyday life using a continuous glucose monitor called Dexcom G6. Traditionally, pilots have relied on finger-prick blood sugar tests, but modern technology offers new possibilities. The main aim is to compare how well pilots can control their blood sugar using this continuous monitor alongside standard testing. The study hopes to challenge older ideas that might prevent pilots with diabetes from flying, showing that with careful monitoring and modern tools, they can manage their condition safely in a demanding job role. It builds on previous work that has allowed some private and commercial pilots with diabetes to fly under strict guidelines.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Sponsor

University of Surrey

Enrolment target

Start

05 Dec 2019

Estimated completion

30 Dec 2025

Insulin Dependent Diabetes

What is this study about?

You might be aware that people with diabetes sometimes face difficulties in certain jobs, especially those that are important for safety, like flying or driving. Traditionally, there have been strict rules about people taking insulin and working in these roles. This is because regulators want to make sure everyone is safe – both the person doing the job and the public.

However, diabetes treatments have come a long way. Modern insulin therapies and new ways to monitor blood sugar mean that we can manage diabetes much more effectively now. Because of these advances, some countries, including the UK, have started to look at these rules again. They're trying to find a balance between individual rights and public safety, allowing people with diabetes to fly if they can prove they can manage their condition safely.

This particular study focuses on commercial pilots who use insulin. It's looking at a device called Dexcom G6, which is a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). This small device is worn on the body and can show your blood sugar levels in real-time, all day and night. The study wants to see how well pilots can control their blood sugar using this device while flying and during their normal lives, compared to the traditional method of pricking a finger to check blood sugar. Understanding this could help improve safety and opportunities for pilots with diabetes in the future.

Key takeaways

This study is for commercial pilots with insulin-treated diabetes.
It evaluates the Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitor.
The aim is to improve blood sugar management during flying and daily life.
It could help challenge old rules about pilots with diabetes flying.
Participation involves using the monitor for six months alongside usual checks.

Who may be eligible?

To be considered for this study, you would need to be a commercial pilot between 18 and 75 years old who uses insulin for your diabetes. You must already be part of the current scheme that allows pilots with insulin-treated diabetes to fly.

It's important that you are willing and able to check your blood sugar yourself (using finger-prick tests) and also wear a Continuous Glucose Monitoring System (CGMS) like the Dexcom G6 for six months.

If you are outside the age range, or if you are part of the flying scheme but not currently flying, then this study would not be suitable for you.

Quick self-check

Are you a commercial pilot?
Are you between 18 and 75 years old?
Do you use insulin for your diabetes?
Are you currently part of the approved scheme for pilots with diabetes?
Are you willing to do finger-prick tests AND wear a continuous monitor for 6 months?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, you will be asked to use the Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitoring system for six months. This device will track your blood sugar levels continuously, both when you are flying and during your daily life. You'll also continue to do your usual finger-prick blood glucose tests.

The study researchers will compare the information from the continuous monitor with your standard blood sugar readings to see how well your blood sugar is controlled. There won't be any specific medications given as part of this study; it's about how you monitor your existing insulin treatment. You will also have regular check-ups or appointments where the study team will review your data and discuss your progress. The total duration of your active involvement in the study will be six months.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could offer you the benefit of using an advanced blood sugar monitoring system, which might give you more detailed insights into your glucose control. This could potentially help improve your diabetes management, both during flights and in everyday situations. As with any medical device worn on the skin, there's a small chance of skin irritation or discomfort from the sensor. There's also the time commitment involved in wearing the device and attending study appointments. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

University of Surrey FHMS Nutritional Sciences
Guildford, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is the main goal of this study?

The study aims to see how well commercial pilots with insulin-treated diabetes can manage their blood sugar using a continuous glucose monitor (Dexcom G6) compared to traditional finger-prick tests.

What is a Dexcom G6?

The Dexcom G6 is a device that continuously measures and displays your blood sugar levels throughout the day and night without needing to prick your finger every time.

How long would I need to be in the study?

If you join, you would need to wear the continuous glucose monitor and be part of the study for six months.

Does this study involve new medications?

No, this study does not involve new medications. It's about how you monitor your existing insulin treatment.

Can I stop being in the study if I change my mind?

Yes, you can choose to leave the study at any time, and it won't affect your medical care.