Contact lens to monitor diabetes

Contact Lens That Monitors Glucose
Levels in Development

PITTSBURGH, June 2010 — PCCA Technologies is developing the technology for a glucose-sensing contact lens for people with diabetes. Unlike glucose strips that require blood samples, this medical device is a painless alternative for self-monitoring.

The contact lens contains a sensor placed discreetly below the iris and beneath the lower eyelid. The sensor continuously monitors the glucose levels in the tear fluid and turns color based on the level.

The contact lens wearer can determine his or her blood-glucose level by simply looking in a mirror to see the sensor color.

The device was developed by a three-man team from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh.