Digital Pathways: Wearable Solutions for Gestational Diabetes in Rural Areas
The Research Problem
- GDM increases the risks of pre-eclampsia, cesarean delivery, and long-term metabolic disorders for both mother and child.
- Current glucose monitoring tools are largely invasive and poorly suited for low-resource or rural settings.
- Health literacy gaps further complicate effective GDM management.
Research Design
- Dulce Band – Develop a non-invasive wearable continuous glucose monitoring device
- Algorithms will be refined to improve accuracy, usability, and reliability.
- Tested across Puerto Rico, Canada, and South Africa.
- AI-based Mobile Application (ICT platform)
- Provides personalized health literacy, guidance, and GDM management tools
- Designed to meet women at their current knowledge level and build skills over time
Project Objectives
- Aim 1: Assess feasibility, knowledge, attitudes, practices (KAP), and willingness to adopt non-invasive monitoring among pregnant women in rural settings.
- Aim 2: Refine and test the Dulce Band’s efficacy across diverse environments and populations.
- Aim 3: Develop and integrate an AI-powered mobile app for personalized GDM health literacy and management.
Expected outcomes include a patient-ready wearable prototype, a functional AI-based app, feasibility data, and scalable protocols for global deployment.
Note on Co-Investigators: Dr Bessie Malila holds a position at University of Cape Town, although she is now primarily at University of Johannesburg. Dr Malila was a PI on this WUN RDF project, awarded in 2024.