Afon Technology has been presented with Junkosha’s Technology Innovator of the Year Award, along with a $25,000 prize, for its glucose monitoring device for people living with diabetes.
Afon’s Glucowear device has been described as a significant step forward in the development of non-invasive glucose monitoring.
Operating in Japan, the UK, US and China, Junkosha applies fluoropolymer application technologies across many sectors, including microwave interconnect and medical devices, and its award aims to spotlight the achievements of pioneers in advanced technologies worldwide.
Estimated to affect 415 million people worldwide, diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.
Glucose monitoring devices, such as continuous glucose monitors (CGM) and flash glucose monitors, help identify how blood sugar levels respond to factors including diet, exercise and medication.
In an effort to combat the gap between concept and real-world implementation in optical sensor technology and to advance the development of non-invasive glucose monitoring, Glucowear utilises radio frequency sensors placed beneath the base of the wearer’s wrist to detect and transmit glucose data to provide real-time glucose readings.
In addition, the glucose monitoring device eliminates the time lag associated with existing CGMs and can be used on all skin colours, enabling users to manage their diabetes more effectively and make more informed lifestyle choices.
“Over the past year, the judges had a very tough decision to make, but the quality of Afon’s work was truly impressive,” explained Joe Rowan, chairperson for the award, having “met all the criteria that Junkosha was looking for; [Afon] exceeded our expectations”.
Mamoru Sogo, president and chief executive officer of Junkosha, commented: “We congratulate… Afon Technology on this remarkable achievement and look forward to witnessing their continued success.”
Afon’s chief executive officer, Sabih Chaudhry, believes that Glucowear “holds the potential to revolutionise the lives of individuals living with diabetes” and “enhance patient outcomes”.
“Being recognised for changing the landscape of continuous glucose monitoring is an honour” and “is testament to the dedication and outstanding skillset of our team,” he added.