Pancreatic cell transplant may soon be available to the American public. US-based scientists are now working double time to license the treatment for a small number of type 1 diabetics. More would benefit from the treatment if current tests show positive results.
Treatment Reduces Severe Hypoglycemia
The renewed interest in pancreatic cell transplant stemmed from a new study which claimed that the treatment can reduce severe hypoglycemia in type 1 diabetics. The study, which is featured on this month's edition of Diabetes Care, was conducted by the National Institutes of Health.
To test the effectiveness of pancreatic cell transplant, the agency offered the treatment to 48 type 1 diabetics in eight different health centers. A year after receiving the transplant, approximately 88 percent of the patients reported a reduction in severe hypoglycemic episodes.
Two years later, 71 percent of patients reported they were still faring relatively well. Some patients, 52 percent of them to be exact, reported that they no longer needed insulin shots following the treatment. Others said they still require insulin shots, but only in lower doses.
Lisa Bishop, a Wisconsin native, told CBS News that the treatment was "an amazing gift." She got her new islet cells in 2010 and has since discontinued her insulin shots.
Some Diabetics Suffer From Hypoglycemic Unawareness
When blood sugar drops too low, most type 1 diabetics could recognize its early warning signs such as heart palpitations, sweating and indistinct speech. These symptoms prompt them to drink or eat something that would increase their blood sugar levels.
However, some type 1 diabetics become oblivious to these symptoms over time. This is called hypoglycemic unawareness.
Bishop recalled how her heart sank when doctors told her she had become hypoglycemic unaware. Her condition made it difficult for her to focus or hold a job. She claimed she hasn't had one hypoglycemic episode since receiving treatment.
According to Diabetes.org, type 1 diabetics who experience hypoglycemia should consume 15 to 20 grams of simple carbohydrates to normalize their blood sugar levels. They can achieve this by taking 1 tablespoon of sugar, corn syrup or honey. Jellybeans, gumdrops and fizzy drinks will also do the trick.