A blood glucose monitoring system that connects to video game systems to help children manage diabetes is available in U.S. drug stores, its manufacturer said.

Bayer’s Didget meter positively reinforces consistent blood glucose testing habits among children with diabetes by awarding points that kids can use to unlock new game levels in Nintendo D and DS Lite systems, a statement by Bayer said.

“As the first meter truly designed with kids in mind, the Didget meter can transform a child’s blood sugar testing experience from something they have to do into something they want to do,” Dr. Larry Deeb - pediatric endocrinologist and medical director for the Diabetes Center at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital in Florida and a paid consultant for Bayer - said in a statement.

“Regular blood sugar testing is critical for diabetes management and one of the biggest challenges facing parents of kids with diabetes is motivating their kids to develop good testing habits. Bayer’s Didget meter adds an element of fun and rewards to the routine of testing.”

Bayer’s Didget meter is aimed for children ages 4-14 and grows with a child’s ability to manage diabetes, the company said.

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TARRYTOWN, N.Y., April 26 (UPI)