Improved Health Outcomes Seen with rtCGM vs isCGM in Canadian Study1 of Adults with T1D

A new Canadian study found that adults living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) who switched from intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM) to Dexcom real-time Continuous Glucose Monitoring (rtCGM) Systems achieved significant improvements in glucose control, including lower A1C and better overall glycemic outcomes.¹

This retrospective study analyzed four-and-a-half years of data (January 1, 2019, through July 31, 2023) from the Canadian Diabetes LMC Registry. It compared the changes in A1C after 6–12 months in 136 adults living with T1D who switched to Dexcom rtCGM Systems with a matched group who continued using isCGM.
 

Real-world data shows switching to Dexcom rtCGM improves health outcomes

The data demonstrated significantly improved outcomes in those who used rtCGM compared with those who used isCGM, including a reduction in A1C of –7 mmol/mol (–0.6 %) at 6–12-month follow-up.

In a propensity-score matched subset (84 who switched to rtCGM versus 84 staying on isCGM), the cohort that switched to rtCGM achieved a greater A1C drop (adjusted mean difference roughly -5 mmol/mol or -0.5 %; p = 0.002) compared to the isCGM cohort.  

In addition, the data for the Dexcom rtCGM group demonstrated improved glucose metrics, including:

• Higher time in range (TIR) (3.9–10.0 mmol/L)
• Lower time above range (>10.0 mmol/L)
• Lower time below range (<3.9 mmol/L)
• Lower mean glucose  

Of note, these improvements occurred without a statistically significant increase in reported hypoglycemic events, body weight, or total daily insulin dose (TDD) when compared to continuing isCGM.  
 

Benefits of choosing Dexcom rtCGM for insulin-treated T1D

This latest study adds to the expanding body of clinical evidence that supports rtCGM use for improved health outcomes. These promising findings underscore the value of rtCGM as a more effective option than isCGM for managing diabetes in adults living with T1D.

For those using an isCGM system but not achieving optimal glycemic outcomes, switching to an rtCGM device can offer measurable improvements in A1C and other glucose metrics, including increased TIR and reduced hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia exposure.
 

Putting clinical proof into practice for better outcomes

During clinical visits or conversations with adults using isCGM, healthcare providers may wish to proactively integrate the recent evidence into decision-making and help patients determine whether isCGM is still the right solution.

If glycemic targets are less than optimal, or if there is concern about TIR or variability despite consistent use, consider alternative glucose monitoring solutions. For healthcare providers considering the best rtCGM option for adults living with T1D, a side-by-side comparison of Dexcom G7 and an isCGM system can provide helpful insights into features, clinical performance, and patient usability.  

Healthcare providers can feel confident recommending rtCGM, like Dexcom G7, to help individuals living with type 1 diabetes better manage their condition and achieve improved health outcomes.

Read the study  

Download Glucose Sensor Comparison Chart