The D-Pad is an example of a new product category that we have called ‘Canary Products’, which offer people early warnings about their health. This is done in a non-invasive way, through objects already used as part of their daily lives.

The D-Pad works like any other normal pad but includes a diabetes risk indicator that is activated by the user just before removing the used pad. Should the levels of blood glucose be higher then normal, a symbol will appear on the stick, telling the user to contact a health professional for more advanced testing.

The design also includes creative use of the space on the wrapper and internal packaging, to give health information in a more informal way, through comics or brain teasers. This space could also help generate extra revenue to cover the costs of the test, helping to keep the product accessible to users on all income levels.

Elena Figus, Susan Golton

www.homecanary.com