Optimizing Type 2 Diabetes Management with Supplemental Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Authors

• Anubhav G. Gupta, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Family Medicine

Advisor

Tom Colletti

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) continues to rise globally and presents a clinical and economic burden to patients and the entire healthcare system. Current management involves periodic measurement of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) to guide treatment, but does not capture glucose variability, an important factor in endothelial dysfunction and long-term vascular complications. This gap in care hinders holistic management and drives further challenges in achieving optimal glycemic control. The purpose of this article is to propose the supplemental use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) to improve the management of patients with non-insulin-dependent T2DM and prevent chronic vascular complications. A comprehensive literature review of articles published between 2021 and 2025 suggests that CGM offers dynamic glucose data that can detect postprandial spikes, episodes of hyper- and hypoglycemia, which can accelerate endothelial dysfunction, as well as metrics like time-in-range (TIR), which are not captured by HbA1c alone. This real-time feedback can empower patients to make better diet and lifestyle choices and provides useful data for clinicians to make personalized adjustments to treatment plans. Limitations such as insurance coverage, device accessibility, and unfamiliarity with CGM data exist. However, patient and clinician education, as well as studies to establish positive therapeutic effects on the management of glycemic control, can improve widespread adoption. Specifically, future research should focus on the utility of CGM metrics, long-term cost effectiveness, and the integration of artificial intelligence to enhance personalized management. This will help underscore the benefit of adjunct CGM use and its role in expanding personalized management and preventing chronic vascular complications.

Recommended Citation

Gupta AG. Optimizing Type 2 Diabetes Management with Supplemental Continuous Glucose Monitoring. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2026; 8(1).