Dexcom CGM Worn in Outer Space as Part of First-of-its-Kind Polaris Dawn Mission

Rhea-AI Summary

Dexcom's G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System is being used by astronauts on the Polaris Dawn mission to study the effects of spaceflight on human health, particularly glucose regulation. This marks a significant milestone for Dexcom (NASDAQ: DXCM) as the first use of their CGM technology in space. The mission will conduct about 40 scientific experiments over five days, exploring how microgravity and space conditions impact glucose health.

Dexcom is collaborating with Labfront to provide advanced analytics for the collected data. This research is important for understanding metabolic responses in space and ensuring space travel is inclusive for people with diabetes. The company recently launched Stelo, the first FDA-cleared glucose biosensor for non-prescription use by adults not using insulin, further expanding their portfolio of glucose monitoring solutions.

Positive

• Dexcom G6 CGM System is being used in a pioneering space mission, potentially opening new markets and applications
• Collaboration with Labfront for advanced data analytics in space research
• Launch of Stelo, the first FDA-cleared non-prescription glucose biosensor for adults not using insulin
• Dexcom is the most recommended CGM brand by patients and healthcare providers

Negative

• None.

Insights

Medical Research Analyst

This groundbreaking research involving Dexcom's CGM in space marks a significant milestone in diabetes management and space medicine. The study's focus on glucose regulation in microgravity could yield valuable insights for both space travelers and Earth-bound patients. While the immediate market impact may be , the long-term implications for Dexcom's reputation and potential market expansion are substantial.

The collaboration with Labfront for advanced analytics demonstrates Dexcom's commitment to data-driven innovation. This could lead to improved CGM algorithms and more personalized diabetes management strategies. Moreover, the recent launch of Stelo, an FDA-cleared glucose biosensor for non-insulin users, showcases Dexcom's strategic expansion beyond traditional diabetes markets.

Investors should note that while this space mission is exciting, the real value lies in Dexcom's ongoing product diversification and market leadership in CGM technology. The company's ability to innovate and adapt its technology for various applications positions it well for future growth in the expanding digital health sector.

Financial Analyst

From a financial perspective, Dexcom's involvement in the Polaris Dawn mission represents a strategic marketing opportunity rather than an immediate revenue driver. The company's participation in high-profile space research enhances its brand image and could potentially lead to increased market share in the competitive CGM industry.

Dexcom's recent launch of Stelo for non-insulin users is a more tangible growth catalyst. This expansion into the prediabetes market significantly increases Dexcom's total addressable market. With $3.4 billion in revenue for 2022 and a projected 18-23% growth for 2023, Dexcom is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for CGM technology.

Investors should monitor how Dexcom leverages the space mission data to enhance its product offerings and potentially secure new partnerships or government contracts. While the space research itself may not directly impact near-term financials, it reinforces Dexcom's position as an innovator in the medical device sector, which could support long-term valuation multiples.

Tech Expert

The use of Dexcom's G6 CGM system in space demonstrates the robustness and reliability of their technology. Operating in microgravity presents unique challenges and success here could open doors to new applications in extreme environments on Earth. This mission serves as a high-stakes stress test for Dexcom's technology, potentially validating its accuracy and durability under extraordinary conditions.

The collaboration with Labfront for data analytics is particularly intriguing. This partnership could lead to advancements in AI-driven glucose management and predictive algorithms. The insights gained from analyzing glucose dynamics in space could accelerate the development of more sophisticated CGM systems, benefiting both space exploration and terrestrial healthcare.

Dexcom's technology ecosystem, including remote monitoring and reporting capabilities, positions the company well in the growing digital health landscape. The space mission could provide valuable data to further refine these features, potentially leading to new patents and maintaining Dexcom's technological edge in the competitive medical device market.

• Dexcom CGM is being worn by astronauts in space as part of the Polaris Dawn mission, which aims to better understand the effects of spaceflight on human health

SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- DexCom, Inc. (Nasdaq: DXCM), the global leader in real-time continuous glucose monitoring for people with diabetes, today announced the Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System is being worn by astronauts in space as part of the Polaris Dawn mission, which launched this morning and aims to better understand the effects of spaceflight on human health.

While in orbit, the Polaris Dawn crew will conduct scientific research designed to advance both human health on Earth and our understanding of human health during long-duration spaceflights. Given that one in ten¹ people globally live with diabetes, it’s essential to understand the impact of space travel on human health to ensure it is accessible and inclusive of all people, including those living with diabetes and other chronic health conditions.

“As the pioneer in glucose sensing, Dexcom has been responsible for bringing almost every major ‘first’ to market for the CGM category. This health research driven mission marks another first for Dexcom, with our industry leading CGMs being worn by astronauts in outer space,” said Jake Leach, executive vice president and chief operating officer at Dexcom. “We are thrilled to play a role in building a future where people with diabetes are empowered to accomplish anything they set their minds to–including the possibility of exploring outer space–without being held back by their condition.”

Dexcom CGM systems consist of a small, wearable sensor that continually measures and sends glucose data wirelessly to a smart device* or receiver, giving users accurate² real-time glucose data without the need to scan or prick their finger.^† Dexcom CGMs have industry-leading remote monitoring and reporting capabilities and also provide personalized, actionable insights that empower people to solve important health challenges.

Over their five days in space, the Polaris Dawn crew will conduct around 40 scientific experiments, including several to better understand the effects of spaceflight on glucose health. Labfront, a platform assisting health researchers in collecting and analyzing physiological data, is collaborating with Dexcom to provide advanced analytics for the data collected using Dexcom CGM. The research will explore how microgravity, fluid shifts, and blood flow restriction exercises impact glucose regulation.

“Glucose is a critical biomarker for understanding metabolic responses in space, and analyzing its dynamics and interplay with other physiological biomarkers will provide invaluable data for this mission’s scientific objectives,” said Dr. Andrew Ahn, assistant professor at Harvard Medical School and chief medical officer at Labfront.

Dexcom has long believed that understanding glucose is integral to overall health and wellness. Dexcom recently launched Stelo, the first glucose biosensor cleared by the FDA for use without a prescription and available for use by all adults not using insulin in the U.S. Dexcom is the most recommended^‡ CGM brand by both patients³ and healthcare providers,⁴ offering a portfolio of glucose biosensors designed to address the needs of people with all types of diabetes and prediabetes.

Visit Stelo.com today to get started with Stelo, or do a benefits check to see if you are eligible for Dexcom G7 at Dexcom.com/Start.

About DexCom, Inc.

DexCom, Inc. empowers people to take real-time control of health through innovative continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems. Headquartered in San Diego, Calif., and with operations across Europe and select parts of Asia/Oceania, Dexcom has emerged as a leader of diabetes care technology. By listening to the needs of users, caregivers, and providers, Dexcom works to simplify and improve diabetes management around the world. For more information about Dexcom CGM, visit www.dexcom.com.

^*Smart device sold separately. For a list of compatible devices, visit www.Dexcom.com/compatibility.
^†Fingersticks required for diabetes treatment decisions if symptoms or expectations do not match readings.
^‡Based on a comparison in NPS scores across major CGM brands.

1 International Diabetes Federation. IDF Diabetes Atlas, 10th edn. Brussels, Belgium: 2021. Available at: https://www.diabetesatlas.org.
2 Welsh JB, et al. J Diabetes Sci Technol. 2024;18(1):143-7.
3 dQ&A US Q1 2023 US Diabetes Connections Patient Panel Report.
4 Seagrove HCP Survey Q2 2022.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240827030657/en/

Media Contact

mediarelations@dexcom.com

Investor Contact

Sean Christensen

858-203-6657

sean.christensen@dexcom.com

Source: DexCom, Inc.

FAQ

What is the Polaris Dawn mission and how is Dexcom involved?

The Polaris Dawn mission is a space mission launched to study the effects of spaceflight on human health. Dexcom is involved by providing their G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System, which is being worn by astronauts to monitor glucose levels during the mission.

How long will the Polaris Dawn mission last and what will be studied?

The Polaris Dawn mission will last five days in space. During this time, the crew will conduct about 40 scientific experiments, including several focused on understanding the effects of spaceflight on glucose health and regulation.

What is Stelo and how does it relate to Dexcom (DXCM)?

Stelo is a glucose biosensor recently launched by Dexcom (DXCM). It is the first glucose monitoring device cleared by the FDA for use without a prescription and is available for all adults not using insulin in the U.S.

How is Labfront involved in the Polaris Dawn mission with Dexcom (DXCM)?

Labfront is collaborating with Dexcom (DXCM) to provide advanced analytics for the data collected using Dexcom CGM during the Polaris Dawn mission. They will help analyze how microgravity, fluid shifts, and blood flow restriction exercises impact glucose regulation in space.