1 - Diabetes, glucose sensing, requirements, challenges, and techniques

The growing global burden of diabetes not only underscores the urgency for effective disease management but also highlights the limitations of conventional diagnostic and monitoring practices. As the number of individuals affected by diabetes continues to rise, especially in low- and middle-income countries, the demand for continuous, accurate, and user-friendly glucose monitoring tools has become more pressing than ever. Traditional glucose sensing techniques, while clinically established, often involve discomfort, risk of infection, and require patient compliance that can be difficult to sustain over long periods. Consequently, the development of alternative technologies that can provide real-time, painless, and convenient glucose monitoring is gaining significant momentum. This chapter explores the current landscape of glucose sensing technologies, examining the scientific principles, practical implementations, and technological advancements across three main categories: invasive, minimally invasive, and noninvasive methods. Through this comprehensive overview, the chapter aims to provide insights into the evolving strategies for glucose monitoring and their potential to revolutionize diabetes care.