HYPOalert: Designing Mobile Technology for Hypoglycemic Detection and Monitoring--Based on Human Breath

Abstract

Hypoglycemia (HYPO) is characterized by low blood glucose (BG)--leading to complications such as sweating, weakness, passing-out, coma, and even death. Effective HYPO management is required to avoid complications and to increase quality of life. Recently, a noninvasive smart breathing sensor was developed for detection of HYPO in human breath (HYPOalert). The device has the ability to deliver data (via Bluetooth) to a mobile application--with the intent to support Type 1 and 2 diabetics with the self-management of their hypoglycemia. This paper presents the first two (prototype) design iterations of research and testing of HYPOalert. Twelve Type 1 and 2 diabetics were interviewed to deduce user requirements and to understand their perception and level of interest in the proposed mobile system. Outcomes informed a human-centered design process of the interactive prototype, currently under final testing. Results were positive--showing that users were very interested in HYPOalert's use of visualization, as well as its HYPO monitoring and alert system that supports diabetes patients' healthy lifestyle management.