The Impact of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Versus Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose (SMBG) on Glycemic Control in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus, particularly type 2 diabetes (T2D), presents a significant global health challenge, necessitating effective glycemic control to reduce the risk of complications. Blood glucose monitoring is a cornerstone of T2D management, with self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) traditionally serving as the standard approach. However, the episodic nature of SMBG limits its ability to capture glycemic variability. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) offers real-time glucose readings and trend analysis, providing a comprehensive picture of glycemic fluctuations. This narrative review compared the impact of CGM versus SMBG on glycemic control in adults with T2D, employing a systematic synthesis of peer-reviewed literature to assess metrics such as HbA1c, time in range (TIR), glycemic variability, and patient-reported outcomes. The findings indicated that CGM outperforms SMBG in reducing HbA1c, mitigating glycemic variability, and improving TIR, adherence, and quality of life. While CGM presents barriers such as high cost and a learning curve, it significantly enhances patient engagement and safety, particularly for high-risk populations. Conversely, SMBG remains a viable, cost-effective option, particularly in resource-limited settings. Emerging advancements in CGM technology, including AI integration, hold promise for broader accessibility and improved outcomes. This review underscored the transformative potential of CGM in optimizing T2D management and informing future diabetes care strategies. Keywords: Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM), Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose (SMBG), Glycemic Control, Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), HbA1c and Time in Range (TIR).