Study Demonstrates How CGM Can Enhance Diabetes Care and Outcomes for Non-Insulin Users in Everyday Clinical Practice

A recent investigation into continuous glucose monitoring for adults with type 2 diabetes who do not use insulin revealed that CGM markedly lowered high blood sugar episodes and produced a meaningful drop in A1C versus standard care. The findings were shared today during an oral presentation at the 2026 Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association in New Orleans.

While established guidelines strongly support CGM for insulin-treated diabetes, additional evidence is required to clarify its value for type 2 diabetes managed solely with oral or non-insulin therapies.

The CONNECT randomized controlled trial spanned 22 primary care sites across the United States and enrolled 283 adults with type 2 diabetes not receiving insulin. Participants had an average age of 60 years, included 32 percent from racial or ethnic minority backgrounds, and presented with A1C values ranging from 7.1 percent to 14.9 percent. At the start, average A1C stood at 8.8 percent, and 31 percent had levels at or above 9 percent. Thirty-seven percent used an SGLT2 inhibitor, and 40 percent took an incretin-based therapy such as a GLP-1 receptor agonist. Individuals were assigned at random to either a Dexcom G7 CGM device or routine blood glucose monitoring with a standard meter over 26 weeks.

Results indicated that CGM led to a notable decrease in hyperglycemia and delivered a 0.9 percent larger A1C reduction after six months compared with the control group. Time spent in the 70 to 180 mg/dL target range increased by approximately five hours daily with CGM. Users also reported higher satisfaction with monitoring and lower diabetes-related distress.

"Because many individuals with type 2 diabetes on oral or non-insulin injectable treatments receive care in primary care environments, continuous glucose monitoring offers a practical way to address an evident treatment gap," noted Thomas W. Martens, MD, study co-author. "As the first large-scale randomized trial of CGM in this population, the data can guide new approaches to diabetes care, support better glucose and A1C control, and ultimately help lower diabetes complications."

A six-month extension of the CONNECT trial is underway to assess whether the observed CGM advantages persist through 12 months.

Research Presentation Details:
"CGM for Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Not on Insulin Therapy: The CONNECT Randomized Controlled Trial"

Thomas W. Martens, MD
Oral Presentations - Session #1: What's New with CGM Systems?
Saturday, June 6 from 1:45-2:00 p.m. CT
Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, La Nouvelle Orleans C (Level 2)

About American Diabetes Association's 2026 Scientific Sessions
The ADA's 2026 Scientific Sessions, the premier global diabetes research and care meeting, takes place in New Orleans from June 5-8. Leading clinicians, researchers, and health professionals from around the world will gather in person and virtually to present the latest discoveries, care recommendations, and progress toward a cure. Attendees gain access to thousands of original research abstracts and engage in dynamic discussions with top diabetes experts. Follow the conversation on social media with #ADASciSessions.

About American Diabetes Association
The American Diabetes Association serves as the leading voluntary health organization dedicated to ending diabetes and supporting those living with the condition. Marking 85 years of advancing research, prevention, management, and treatment, the ADA continues its mission. More than 155 million Americans have diabetes or prediabetes. Through advocacy, education, and programs, the organization stands with all affected individuals. Visit diabetes.org or call 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383) to learn more or participate. Connect on Facebook, Spanish Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and X.

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SOURCE American Diabetes Association