Abbott Finds 24% Increase in DKA Hospitalizations, $38,000 Pediatric Costs
ABT•Abbott data show Type 1 diabetic ketoacidosis hospitalizations rose 24%, from 50 to 62 per 1,000 patients between 2017 and 2024, with pediatric cases comprising nearly 60% of youth diabetes admissions. Pediatric DKA admissions cost up to $38,000 per stay and adult secondary DKA links to longer, costlier hospitalizations.
1. Rising DKA Rates
Abbott presented results showing DKA hospitalization rates among Type 1 diabetes patients climbed 24% from 50 to 62 cases per 1,000 individuals between 2017 and 2024, with pediatric cases registering the sharpest rise. A study of over 100,000 hospital admissions revealed early DKA symptoms often mimic common illnesses, delaying diagnosis.
2. Economic and Health Impact
An analysis of nearly 40,000 pediatric hospitalizations found DKA now accounts for 60% of youth diabetes admissions, with inpatient stays lasting up to one week and costing as much as $38,000. Data from adult cohorts indicate that secondary DKA diagnoses lead to longer hospital stays, higher treatment costs and increased mortality rates.
3. Ketone Monitoring and Abbott’s Response
Continuous glucose monitors do not track ketone levels, and regular ketone testing remains underutilized despite clinical guidance. Abbott has developed a dual glucose-ketone monitoring approach to provide earlier visibility of rising ketones and reduce preventable DKA-related hospitalizations.
