#Japan #Tokyo #CGM #diabetes #DexCom

World Diabetes Day 2025 Media Seminar

On November 14, in observance of World Diabetes Day, Dexcom Japan held a media seminar showcasing insights related to diabetes management and the significance of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) technology. The event featured prominent speakers including Dr. Satoru Yamada, head of the Diabetes Center at Kitasato University Medical Center, model and diabetes challenger Sena, and former professional baseball player Kiki Sano, who has become an advocate after experiencing serious health challenges due to diabetes.

Introduction to Dexcom and the Need for CGM

President of Dexcom Japan, Gen Asano, opened the seminar by introducing the company, which was established in 1999 in San Diego, USA. Dexcom pioneered real-time CGM devices that eliminate the need for finger-prick blood tests. With accessibility in over 52 countries and a user base exceeding 1.7 million worldwide, Dexcom has set the standard for diabetes management innovation. Asano highlighted the importance of integrating CGM technology with smartphones to facilitate better management of blood glucose levels between patients, healthcare providers, and family members.

The latest guidelines from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommend real-time CGM for all insulin-treated patients, underscoring the critical need for these tools. Asano presented findings from a survey conducted in October 2025 involving 500 diabetes patients in Japan. The survey revealed that a significant number of insulin-treated individuals face both physical and psychological burdens related to frequent blood glucose monitoring, illustrating the urgent need to raise awareness and improve the utilization of CGMs.

Understanding Diabetes: Types and Treatments

Dr. Yamada provided essential information about diabetes, emphasizing that the misunderstanding of the condition often results in stigma and misinformation. He noted that many associate diabetes with poor lifestyle choices, while 60% of patients in Japan are not considered obese. Furthermore, he explained that one in two individuals over 40 years old has post-meal hyperglycemia, suggesting a critical need for dietary management.

Yamada stressed the importance of not only understanding diabetes but also monitoring blood glucose levels effectively, stating, "Knowing your blood sugar is crucial to effective treatment." His insights served to encourage attendees to consider blood glucose management as an essential aspect of their overall health strategy.

Personal Stories: Living with Diabetes

The seminar included a talk session featuring Sena and Kiki Sano, who shared their personal experiences living with diabetes. Sena recounted her shocking diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes during a summer vacation at age 18, stemming from severe thirst and weight loss. Meanwhile, Sano discovered his Type 2 diabetes after being hospitalized for pneumonia post-retirement from professional baseball, highlighting the often asymptomatic nature of this condition.

Dr. Yamada further illustrated the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, explaining that Type 1 usually manifests suddenly due to autoimmune reactions while Type 2 develops gradually without immediate symptoms, often only becoming apparent during routine health screenings.

Healthier Living Through Understanding

Both Sena and Sano discussed how their diagnoses prompted them to adopt healthier lifestyle changes. Despite having struggles with blood sugar management, Sano detailed his past experiences with complications from high glucose levels, whereas Sena described how her diagnosis transformed her outlook, driving her to prioritize her health and engage in new challenges. Yamada noted the psychological impact of sudden diabetes cases, emphasizing that both types of patients require tailored support for managing their conditions effectively while maintaining a positive mindset.

Embracing CGM Technology

Discussing CGM further, Sena highlighted its significant role in reducing anxiety related to daily glucose monitoring, allowing her to pursue various activities without fear of unexpected fluctuations. Sano echoed these sentiments, noting improvements in his blood sugar stability since using CGM technology. Yamada advocated for broader access to CGM tools, despite current restrictions in insurance coverage, insisting that more patients should benefit from continuous monitoring.

As the seminar concluded, Sena encouraged attendees to shift their perspectives regarding diabetes from an adversary to an ally. By fostering a supportive understanding of the disease, she believes individuals can lead more fulfilling lives. Sano added the importance of a compassionate approach toward one's condition, which encourages better health management.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Yamada reiterated critical points about diabetes, clarifying misconceptions and advocating for better understanding and management of the disease. He underscored the value of continuous monitoring devices like CGM and how they can enhance the quality of life for many.

In a Q&A session following the seminar, panelists discussed the benefits of CGM use, such as reducing discomfort from traditional monitoring methods, and emphasized the importance of recognition and education regarding diabetes management methods to improve overall public health.

As attendees concluded their discussions, the event radiated a positive atmosphere, highlighting the necessity of fostering deeper conversations about diabetes and advocating for effective management solutions.

About Dexcom, Inc.

Founded in 1999, Dexcom is dedicated to providing innovative CGM systems that empower individuals to manage diabetes in real-time. Operating from its headquarters in San Diego, California, with a global reach across Europe, Asia, and Oceania, Dexcom continues to lead technological advancements in diabetes care. For more information, visit www.dexcom.com/ja-jp.