Bad Science

Today’s New York Times reports that The Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technology in Health has issued a non-binding recommendation against self-monitoring (with strips and meters) for many Type 2 diabetics who do not use insulin.

Apparently there’s no benefit. It seems a Canadian study, presumably read by the Agency, says that more than 1,000 people would need to use strips regularly to prevent a single case of kidney failure.

Instead of relying on test strips, say these experts, patients need to be vigilant about diet, exercise, weight and … wait for it … blood pressure. My experience has been that my BP came down after I got the diabetes under control – not the other way round.

"The message we’d like to impart to those living with T2 diabetes, is that it takes more than testing your blood to look after your health," said Barb Shea, vice president of the health agency.

Well, to work off my irritation I’m going out for brisk drive through town now. I will control my speed with pedals and gears but have covered up the speedometer so that I can’t read it. Varooooom…. :driver: