Glucose readings obtained from blood samples taken from the forearm were as accurate as those obtained via the old fingerstick method. This is good news for people who want to avoid repeated fingersticks. New glucose meters are now available that use a tiny blood sample from the forearm or other areas of the body that have fewer nerve endings than the fingertips and are, therefore, not as painful.

In a recently reported study, glucose and hematocrit were measured in 50 nonfasting people with diabetes using a standard HemoCue test and the new SofTact method. The manufacturer, Abbott Laboratories' Medisense Products, sponsored the study, which was performed at the University of Massachusetts/Memorial Hospital.

Although the hematocrit was higher in the blood samples from the forearm, there were no significant differences in glucose readings between the blood samples from the fingertip or the forearm.

Related information: Latest developments - pain-free glucose tests | Diabetes Supplies Guide

Source:  Lock JP, Szuts EZ, Malomo KJ, et al. Whole-blood glucose testing at alternate sites. Diabetes Care, Feb. 1, 2002;25:337-341. (Abs.)