The Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning the public against using smartwatches and smart rings that claim to measure blood sugar levels. The FDA stated that these devices lack scientific validation and sufficient evidence to support their claims. The use of these devices could result in inaccurate measurements of blood glucose levels and lead to errors in diabetes management. Consumers have been urged to be aware of the risks and avoid using these devices as substitutes for approved medical equipment. The FDA instead recommends using an FDA-authorized blood glucose measuring device, which requires people to prick their fingers or pierce the skin.

To address misleading claims, the FDA has already suspended advertisements promoting unapproved medical features in smartwatches and smart rings. Up to now, no smartwatch or smart ring available in Thailand has received FDA certification for measuring blood sugar levels. Therefore, consumers are encouraged to report problems concerning suspicious or unapproved device through FDA’s hotline, 1556, or by email: 1556@fda.moph.go.th.