Diabetes tracking Nintendo style: Bayer rolls out Didget in US

Donna Cusano

As reported in Telecare Aware [22 December] about their UK introduction, Bayer will be marketing the Didget blood glucose monitor for juvenile diabetes in the US starting in May, according to this Business Week report.  It synchs with a Nintendo DS handheld and tracks readings into a program called ‘Knock ’em Downs World’s Fair’, which rewards players for performing their tests each day through bonus game points. Additional points are earned for staying within target blood sugar ranges, which parents can program in.  Powerful stuff for an important health objective–keeping kids involved and responsible for monitoring their health.  Good background on both Bayer and Nintendo’s ongoing work in this, along with the usual reimbursement problems.  Now for a teen version?