Widespread ignorance exists among the general public about the basics of diabetes—and that gap applies to those with the disease as well. But a new survey indicates technology that already exists could narrow that gap.

The research was conducted among more than 2,500 participants by Telcare, a digital health provider that claims a recently FDA-approved cellular blood glucometer among its products.

The top-line findings regarding knowledge of the disease suggest that somebody needs to find a way to educate more people about this disease that carries an annual price tag of a quarter of a trillion dollars. For instance:

• 57 percent of the U.S. population isn't aware that diabetes can cause other major health issues, including heart disease;

• 63 percent don't know the difference between Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, or that Type 2 is preventable and curable;

• 64 percent of respondents who know someone living with diabetes are unaware that diabetes can lead to other health complications such as kidney failure, lower limb amputations and blindness.

But the survey demonstrated that a majority of those living with diabetes would use technology to monitor their condition and help them combat the disease. And especially in the case of people ages 18 to 34, technology will be key to helping them manage their disease.