Diabetes Tech Inequalities: Ethnic Minorities in England Left Behind

Published: 01 January 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

A new study has revealed that ethnic minorities in England face unequal access to diabetes technology, leaving many unable to manage their condition effectively. Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are vital for people living with diabetes, yet the research highlights that black and south Asian communities are less likely to be prescribed this life-changing device. Access to diabetes technology is crucial, and the disparities identified demonstrate a clear need for equitable healthcare implementation across England.

The study, published in Diabetic Medicine, examined CGM prescribing rates and found stark differences depending on ethnicity. Ethnic minority populations represented 17.5% of integrated care board areas with below-average prescribing, while they accounted for only 5.3% in areas with higher-than-average access. These findings indicate structural inequities deeply embedded within healthcare systems, affecting millions of people.

Experts emphasize that CGMs provide a more accurate and convenient way to monitor blood sugar than traditional finger-prick methods. Samuel Seidu, the lead author from the University of Leicester, stated the analysis was the first of its kind in England to show national ethnic disparities in access to CGMs across both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Seidu highlighted that structural inequities are compounded by socioeconomic factors, noting that ethnicity and deprivation account for up to 77% of variance in CGM prescribing for type 2 diabetes. This shows that certain communities face systemic barriers preventing them from benefiting from available technology. The study calls for urgent action to implement National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines uniformly across all regions.

Anthony Walker, policy lead at Diabetes UK, stressed that the inequities in diabetes technology access are alarming. He urged targeted interventions to ensure underserved communities receive the support and devices they require. Walker also emphasized that healthcare professionals need adequate resources to identify gaps and improve access.

Previous reports have noted that socioeconomic challenges further exacerbate inequalities, with some families unable to utilise NHS-provided technology due to the cost of smartphones necessary for effective diabetes management. Daniel Newman, a diabetes advocate, shared his experience of relocating to access CGM technology, underscoring the necessity of clinical need over postcode or income in determining access.

The research demonstrates that ethnic minorities, who face higher risks of type 2 diabetes, are being left behind. Without equitable access to CGMs, these populations are unable to benefit from tools that improve health outcomes, manage complications, and enhance quality of life. Experts call for robust action to dismantle barriers and ensure all eligible patients receive technology based on need, not demographics.

The study serves as a critical wake-up call for the NHS and policymakers to address systemic healthcare inequalities. By prioritising fair distribution of diabetes technology, the UK can take significant steps toward reducing health disparities and improving outcomes for minority communities disproportionately affected by diabetes. Access to CGMs should no longer be inconsistent, and adherence to NICE guidance must be enforced nationally to prevent further inequities.

In conclusion, the persistent gaps in access to diabetes technology for ethnic minorities highlight structural challenges within England’s healthcare system. Efforts to close these gaps must focus on ensuring that all individuals, regardless of ethnicity, income, or postcode, can access CGMs to manage their diabetes effectively. This research underlines the urgent need for systemic reform and equitable healthcare delivery across the country.

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