A recent quasi-experimental study conducted by Alpro Pharmacy and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) on 111 individuals with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) demonstrated the benefits of a structured self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) approach for diabetes management.
The 6-month study showed a significant 5% reduction in HbA1c levels for the intervention group, while the control group experienced an opposite effect, with HbA1c levels increasing at a similar rate. This led to an overall efficacy improvement of 10% in blood glucose control and health related quality of life for those in the intervention group.
While short-term improvements in HbA1c are often achievable, maintaining these results over months or years can be challenging. The sustained 10% improvement in HbA1c for the intervention group not only demonstrates efficacy but also suggests the potential for lasting change in blood glucose control—representing a breakthrough in diabetes care.
A hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) test measures the amount of blood glucose attached to hemoglobin. It is a blood test that shows patient’s average blood glucose levels over the past three months. Dietitian Chua Kai Jia, one of the study’s researchers, said, “SMBG provides valuable data for healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans, unfortunately, it was estimated that less than 30% of T2DM patients in Asia are reporting regular SMBG usage. The findings from this study demonstrate that the SMBG through subscription model is feasible, useful, and has the potential to be implemented as an effective tool for diabetes care, as T2DM is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions globally and locally.”
According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2023, 3.6 million, or one in six adults in Malaysia, have diabetes. More alarmingly, two in five adults with diabetes do not know that they have the condition. The country also incurred about RM4.4 billion in annual direct healthcare costs from diabetes in 2017.
“We are very encouraged by the positive findings from this preliminary study. Our approach is indeed very simple: patients subscribed to our digital diabetes care programme for as low as RM0.99 a day receive a blood glucose meter that can be synced to a mobile app. Through face-to-face consultations or instant messaging, we offer more than just monitoring; we assess their daily diet and provide practical advice, making it feel like having a dietitian by their side throughout their daily lives. No additional medication or supplements are involved in this tailored digital approaches.
The study also found that patients under the SMBG subscription programme have reported a significant improvement in their mental well-being,” added Dietitian Chua who is also Alpro Pharmacy’s Professional Care and Development Manager.
The findings were revealed in advance of World Diabetes Day on 14 November. In conjunction with this important occasion, Alpro Pharmacy launched the month-long RM1 Blood Glucose Check campaign, supporting the Government’s initiative to combat diabetes and aiming to screen 2 million people this year.
The RM1 Blood Glucose Check campaign offers affordable diabetes screening, across its over 300 outlets nationwide, at just RM1, making it accessible for all during the month of November. Chief Pharmacist at Alpro Pharmacy, Ph. Lim En Ni, highlighted the importance of early detection and stringent management in controlling Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). She noted, “While T2DM can be managed with appropriate care, early identification is crucial for effective intervention. Aside from this, a research by the University of Hong Kong’s School of Clinical Medicine (HKUMed), spanning over 17 years, found that maintaining optimal diabetes control significantly reduced the risk of colorectal and liver cancers by 28% and 30%, respectively. Hence, the proactive approach not only prevents cancer but also reduces risks of severe complications, underscoring the importance of managing diabetes diligently to support long-term health.”
Through the RM1 Blood Glucose Check campaign, Alpro Pharmacy aims to raise awareness about diabetes, promote healthy lifestyle choices, and ensure that more Malaysians have access to essential health screenings. In line with this initiative, Alpro launched the Easy-Portion Bowl crafted to help portion carbohydrate in food sources, and LowCarb Flaxseed Oat Sourdough, a nutritious option for those looking to manage their blood sugar levels. Notably, 2 slices of LowCarb Flaxseed Oat Sourdough equal to the carbohydrate content of one slice of regular bread, making it a great choice for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake.
For more information about the RM1 Blood Glucose Check campaign and how to participate, please visit Alpro Pharmacy website.
