JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Background:

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is one of the most prevalent non-communicable diseases, requiring ongoing lifestyle change and continuous glucose management to support medication use, diet, and physical activity. Traditional self-monitoring of blood glucose can be burdensome, particularly with frequent finger pricks. As continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) becomes more affordable and widely available, it offers clear benefits, including improved glucose awareness, behavioural adjustments, and reduced anxiety. However, challenges persist, such as cost, pain from sensor insertion, skin reactions to adhesives, and privacy concerns. In the UK, patient perceptions of CGM among people with T2D, both users and non-users, remain under-explored, limiting understanding of factors that influence adoption and sustained use, and the support needed to promote adherence. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first UK-based study to explore the perspectives of both CGM users and non-users with T2D using a large, nationally representative sample. The identified benefits and challenges emerging from this study provide valuable insights to inform research, clinical practice, and policy aimed at supporting the equitable adoption and sustained use of CGM in the UK.

Objective:

Objectives: This qualitative study aims to explore how adults with type two diabetes (T2D) perceived the benefits and challenges of using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), including both current users and non-users.

Methods:

Methods:

This study employed a cross-sectional, online survey using YouGov’s nationally representative panel to explore experiences of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) among adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the UK. A total of 531 participants were recruited in December 2024. Thematic analysis of responses to two open-ended questions identified key perceived benefits and challenges associated with CGM use.

Results:

Results:

A total of 531 adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) completed the YouGov online survey. Over half were male (55.9%) and aged 65+ years (53%). Two-thirds (65%) had lived with T2D for more than five years, and 9.5% had ever used a CGM. Nearly half of participants (49%) provided free-text responses on CGM benefits and 33% on challenges. Thematic analysis identified five key benefit themes: (i) practicality and user-friendliness, (ii) better understanding of lifestyle impacts on glucose levels, (iii) improved self-management, (iv) enhanced safety, and (v)improved data sharing with healthcare providers. The main challenges identified included (i) limited access, (ii) usability and technological issues, (iii) overreliance on passive monitoring, (iv) emotional burden, and (v) data-related matters.

Conclusions:

Conclusions:

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) was perceived by adults with T2D as a practical and empowering tool that enhances understanding, safety and collaboration with healthcare providers. However, access barriers, usability challenges and emotional and data-related burdens remain significant obstacles to the equitable adoption of these technologies. Addressing these challenges through improved affordability, digital literacy support, and tailored clinical guidance may help promote sustained and inclusive CGM use in routine diabetes care.