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Project Summary
This Global Grant will provide Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) sensors to 240 children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) in Kerala (Covering revenue Districts of Thrissur, Ernakulam and Idukki), twice during the Project year (total 480 sensors).CGM enables real-time glucose tracking, reduces life-threatening fluctuations, and empowers families to make timely adjustments to insulin, diet, and lifestyle.
The project also includes Training & Awareness Programmes (in batches of 120 children along with their Parents / Caretakers) ,focusing on CGM usage, data interpretation, insulin adjustments, nutrition, physical activity, and prevention of diabetes-related complications.
Needs Assessment
Continuous Glucose Monitoring device data from a study conducted by Dr. Sangeetha Merrin Varghese of Believers Church Medical College, Thiruvalla (ICMR-sponsored and supported by Rotary Club of Tripunithura during 2024) indicates critical gaps in glucose control, growth, and complication prevalent among these children.
Study Findings (of 600 children) in a nutshell are as follows:
Average age: 13.6 years
Average age of diagnosis: 7 years.
Growth impact: 25% stunted (below expected height for age).
Poor glucose control:
Only 4% of time in target glucose range.
82.5% experienced hypoglycaemia; 98.4% had recurrent episodes.
69.5% had severe low blood sugar; 93.2% had severe high blood sugar.
HbA1c levels: Average 9.65%; 40% above 10% (very poor control).
Identified Challenges:
CGM technology is highly effective but unaffordable for most families.
Without CGM, glucose swings go unnoticed, increasing the risk of kidney damage, blindness, cardiovascular disease, and premature death.
Project Implementation Plan Activities:
1. Procurement: Purchase 480 CGM sensors .
2. Distribution: Coordinate with Medical partners for delivery in two cycles (6 months apart).
3. Training & Awareness Programs - 4 in Total.
Demonstrations on applying, using, and removing CGM sensors.
Interpreting CGM readings and alerts.
Adjusting insulin, meals, and activity based on glucose patterns.
Mental health support and peer sharing for families.
4. Follow-up & Data Analysis: Pediatric endocrinologists review CGM reports, adjust treatment, and document improvements.
Timeline:
Month 1- Procurement of CGMs
Month 2-First awareness program & CGM fixing & support for the first batch of 120 children.
Month 3-First awareness program & CGM fixing & support for the second batch of 120 children.
Month 8- Second awareness program and CGM fixing & support for the First batch of 120 children.
Month 9-Second awareness program and CGM fixing & support for the Second batch of 120 children .
Budget Estimate (for 240 children for 1 year)
Item Unit Cost Qty Total (INR) Total (USD*)
(INR)
CGM Sensors (2 per child/year) 5000 480 2400000 27586
Training & Workshops (4 in
total during the Year). 250 800 200000 2299
Include per person
Project Mgmt & Monitoring - - 10000 115
Total 261000 30000
*Exchange rate: INR 87 = USD 1 (approx.).
Sustainability
Medical Partner and Paediatric Endocrinologists will continue follow-up care.
CGM usage will help families learn accurate insulin dosing, improving long-term control.
Data will support policy advocacy for future Government Subsidy programs.
Measurable Outcomes (within 12 months)
HbA1c reduction: From average 9.65% to ≤8.5%.
Hypo-/hyperglycemic episode reduction: ≥40% decrease in frequency.
Improved growth: Positive change in height percentile for children previously stunted.
Caregiver empowerment: ≥80% report increased confidence in managing diabetes.
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