Sachin Walls
There are conflicting opinions on whether the Dexcom G5 can go through airport X-ray machines. Some sources claim that it is safe to do so, while others recommend avoiding X-ray machines and opting for alternative security measures, such as a pat-down or visual inspection. According to Dexcom's official website, they have not tested every full-body scanner and X-ray machine, and therefore recommend against putting the Dexcom G6 through X-ray machines. However, some users have reported experiencing no issues when going through airport X-ray machines with their Dexcom devices.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can Dexcom G5 go through airport metal detectors? | Yes |
| Can Dexcom G5 be hand wand searched? | Yes |
| Can Dexcom G5 components be put through baggage X-ray machines? | No |
| Should Dexcom G5 components be placed in a separate bag before handing over to the Security Officer? | Yes |
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What You'll Learn
Dexcom G5 vs. G6 and G7
Dexcom is a popular brand of continuous glucose monitor (CGM) for people with diabetes. Its CGMs work by tracking blood sugar levels in real time using a wearable sensor and transmitter, which send blood glucose readings to a smartphone and/or receiver. This helps to simplify diabetes management and eliminate frequent finger-stick tests.
Dexcom's first CGM was the G6, launched in 2018, and this was followed by the G7, which features several improvements.
Size and Location of Wear
The Dexcom G7 is 60% smaller than the G6, making it more comfortable and discreet. This means it can be worn in more locations on the body. While the G6 must be worn on the abdomen for users aged 2 and older, or on the upper buttocks for children aged 2-17, the G7 can be worn on the back of the upper arm for adults, and on the upper buttocks for children aged 2-6. The G7 can also be placed on the abdomen, like the G6.
Warm-up Time
The Dexcom G7 has a much shorter warm-up time than the G6. While the G6 takes two hours to get ready for use, the G7 only takes 30 minutes. This means users can start monitoring their glucose levels much faster with the G7, and there is less time without blood glucose monitoring alerts.
Sensor and Transmitter
The Dexcom G7 features an all-in-one sensor and transmitter, whereas the G6 uses separate components. The G7's transmitter does not need to be replaced every three months, as is the case with the G6. The G7's redesigned sensors are round, while the G6's are not.
App
The Dexcom G7 comes with a redesigned app that integrates Clarity software directly into the phone app. This allows users to see events like food intake, insulin doses, and physical activity on their trend graph. The app also features Dexcom Clarity integration, making it much easier to use the Dexcom G7 with compatible smart devices. The G7 app also offers more customisable alerts and allows users to see the trend of their sugars for 3, 6, 12, or 24 hours.
Accuracy
The Dexcom G7 has a Mean Absolute Relative Difference (MARD) of 8.2% for adults, and 8.1% for children, making it one of the most accurate CGMs available. In comparison, the Dexcom G6 has a MARD of 9.0%. While both numbers indicate high accuracy, the G7's lower MARD means it's slightly better at matching actual blood glucose levels.
Grace Period
The G7 offers a 12-hour grace period for replacing the sensor once it has expired after 10 days of wear. This limits or eliminates the amount of time the user goes without readings.
Data Storage
The G7 can store up to 24 hours of data in case the receiver or phone is out of range of the sensor. The G6 can only store data for three hours.
Insulin Pumps
The Dexcom G6 and G7 are both compatible with a selection of insulin pumps. However, the G6 can connect to two insulin pumps – Omnipod and Tandem – while the G7 could not connect to any insulin pumps as of September 2023.
Cost
The Dexcom G6 transmitter costs about $300 and lasts three months, while a pack of three sensors costs about $300 and lasts 30 days. This means that users will need four transmitters and 12 packs of sensors per year, at an average yearly cost of around $4800 and a monthly cost of approximately $400. The Dexcom G7 combines the transmitter and sensor into one device that can be used for 10 days.
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Metal detectors vs. X-ray machines
X-ray machines and metal detectors are two common security measures used at airports and other security checkpoints. While both technologies aim to detect contraband or security threats, they operate differently and have distinct advantages and disadvantages.
Metal detectors use electromagnetic fields to identify disruptions caused by the presence of metal objects. They rely on the magnetic permeability and conductive properties of metal to detect contraband items. However, they may struggle with certain types of metals, such as non-ferrous metals, and can be affected by factors like moisture content or product conductivity. Metal detectors are also limited in that they can only detect metallic contaminants and may not be effective with items packaged in metallic wrapping or foil trays. Additionally, metal detectors require a significant amount of metal-free space around them, which can be a challenge in terms of space allocation.
On the other hand, X-ray machines use electromagnetic radiation to detect physical contaminants based on density differentiation. They can identify various types of contaminants, including metals, plastics, stones, and bone fragments, and can even detect missing components or inspect seals. X-ray technology offers a more comprehensive range of inspection functions and can detect much smaller metallic contaminants than metal detectors. X-ray systems are often bulkier and may not be as suitable for smaller spaces. They also typically require a higher investment in terms of installation, maintenance, and spare parts.
In the context of airport security and the Dexcom G5/G6/G7, users have reported being able to pass through metal detectors without issues. Dexcom's official guidance for the G6 recommends using metal detectors or requesting a hand wand, pat-down, or visual inspection. They advise against sending the G6 components through X-ray machines, suggesting that they be placed in a separate bag for inspection by a TSA officer. However, some users have reported experiencing no issues with X-ray machines, and Dexcom states that the G7 is approved for airport scanners and X-ray.
In summary, both metal detectors and X-ray machines have their strengths and limitations. Metal detectors are effective for detecting specific types of metals but may struggle with certain metals and require dedicated space. X-ray machines offer a broader range of inspection capabilities, detecting various contaminants and performing quality control functions. When it comes to airport security and medical devices like the Dexcom G series, it is generally recommended to opt for metal detectors or alternative inspection methods to avoid potential issues with X-ray machines.
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TSA Pre-Check
While there is no explicit information about the Dexcom G5 and TSA Pre-Check, here is some information about the Dexcom G6 and airport security that may be relevant.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends that individuals with a Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) inform the Security Officer that they are wearing a medical device and request a full-body pat-down with a visual inspection of the sensor and transmitter. This is because Dexcom has not tested every Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) body scanner and X-ray machine, and therefore cannot guarantee the potential damage they may cause to the device.
When travelling with a Dexcom G6, it is recommended to place all components in a separate bag and inform the Screening Officer upon entering the screening area. Individuals may also be asked to provide medical evidence or a letter from their healthcare provider explaining the medical condition and the need for the device.
Transport Canada recommends using the Family-Special Needs security line, as the Screening Officers in these lanes are trained to offer additional assistance.
Similar procedures may apply to the Dexcom G5 when going through TSA Pre-Check. It is advisable to check the TSA website or contact them directly for specific instructions regarding the Dexcom G5 and TSA Pre-Check.
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Hand wanding and pat-downs
While there is no clear way to opt out of a pat-down screening if you trigger an alarm, you can request a more discreet pat-down in a private screening room with a TSA officer of your gender and a witness, such as a second officer or a travel companion.
During a TSA pat-down search procedure, a Transportation Security Officer (TSO) will use their hands to feel for items that may be hidden on an individual’s body or underneath their clothes. An officer of the same gender as the passenger should handle the pat-down. If this is not feasible, there may be additional steps taken to ensure that the screening is properly performed.
The TSO is required to use the back of their hand to search or perform airport security body checks or to check sensitive places, such as the crotch or upper chest. A TSO may check the outside perimeter of a female passenger's chest, including above and under their breasts, while conducting a search.
If you believe you have been subjected to an improper pat-down search, the TSA advises you to notify a screening supervisor right once. You can also get a feedback form at any checkpoint. Your complaint will be noted if you follow these steps. Evidence of the occurrence can be useful if you decide to pursue legal action against the TSA, the airport, or an individual officer later on.
Regarding the Dexcom G5, while there is limited information available, the Dexcom G6 and G7 are allowed to go through metal detectors and be hand-wanded when going through airport security. If these aren't available, pat-downs and visual inspections are other methods that can be used without worrying about damaging the device. However, it is recommended that you do not put Dexcom components through baggage X-ray machines. Instead, place them in a separate bag or bin and ask a TSA officer to perform a visual inspection.
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Manufacturer recommendations
Dexcom has not tested every full-body scanner and X-ray machine, nor do they know the damage they may cause to the Dexcom G6 sensor. Therefore, they recommend a hand wand search or a full-body pat down and visual inspection instead.
The manufacturer recommends that you do not send your devices through an X-ray machine. Instead, place all Dexcom G6 CGM System components in a separate bag or bin before handing them over to the Security Officer for inspection. This is also mentioned in the \"Notice of Medical Device\" letter, which can be downloaded from the Dexcom website and filled out by your healthcare provider.
If you are wearing your Dexcom G6, you can go through metal detectors or be hand-wanded without worrying about damaging any of the components. If you are concerned or uncomfortable about walking through the metal detector, you can request a full-body pat-down with a visual inspection of your sensor and transmitter. Make sure the Security Officer is aware that the sensor cannot be removed because it is inserted under your skin.
For other medical supplies, such as medications, blood glucose meters, and strips, check the manufacturer's instructions, the American Diabetes Association, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), or the airport directly.
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Frequently asked questions
Dexcom has not recommended putting Dexcom devices through X-ray machines. However, some users have reported doing so without any issues. The G7 is officially approved for airport scanners and X-ray, but for the G5, it is recommended to opt for alternative security measures.
You can go through walk-in metal detectors or be hand-wanded without worrying about damaging the device. If you are uncomfortable with this, you can request a full-body pat-down with a visual inspection of your sensor and transmitter.
You can download a "Notice of Medical Device" letter from the Dexcom website, which can be filled out by your physician and presented to airport security to explain your Dexcom CGM system.
The transmitter is a separate component from the sensor and should not be affected by metal detectors or X-ray machines. However, it is recommended to keep it in a separate bag and inform the TSA officer that it is medical equipment that should not be X-rayed.
Yes, if you are using a smart device with your Dexcom G5, such as a phone or watch, refer to the device's user guide for specific travel tips. Additionally, when on the plane, remember to turn on airplane mode and then enable Bluetooth to connect to your transmitter.
