Simple tool could transform treatment for people with type 2 diabetes worldwide

Millions of people with type 2 diabetes could receive better treatment thanks to a new, simple low-cost tool, according to research announced at the Diabetes UK Professional Conference 2025 and published in The Lancet.

Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed an innovative way of identifying the most effective glucose-lowering drugs for a person with type 2 diabetes. By predicting which drug will lead to the largest reduction in blood glucose levels, the easy-to-use tool could pave the way for better health for millions, at the push of a button.

Careful management of blood glucose levels is essential for reducing the risk of serious diabetes complications. However, keeping blood glucose levels in a safe range can be challenging, with only about a third of people with type 2 diabetes meeting targets. With diabetes-related complications devastating lives and costing the UK health care system £6.2 billion every year, there is an urgent need for new approaches to improve blood glucose management.

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