A new Nintendo DS add-on, the Didget meter, is set to change the way children manage their diabetes conditions.
Launched by Bayer Diabetes Care in the UK, the new device attaches to Nintendo’s popular portable gaming system to help them manage their blood sugar independently.
The Didget measures body glucose levels, providing reward incentives for consistent blood glucose testing habits and meeting personalised glucose target ranges.
John Gregory, professor in paediatric endocrinology at Cardiff University, said that the Didget adds "an element of fun" to a routine that can help to ease tension between parents and children.
He explained: "One of the biggest challenges facing parents of children with diabetes is the constant struggle to instil the habit of regular blood glucose testing that is critical for consistent diabetes management.
"Bayer’s Didget meter can transform a child’s blood glucose testing experience from something they have to do into something they want to do."
The new device is the latest health and fitness-related piece of hardware released on a Nintendo platform and follows the launch of the popular Wii Fit, which sets users fitness targets and measures key indicators such as Body Mass Index and balance.