P-07: Prevalence and expansion of diabetes technologies in pediatric type 1 diabetes in Chile
C Sepúlveda, O Salgado, M MiraAbstract
Introduction
In Latin America, pediatric type 1 diabetes (T1D) remains poorly characterized, with limited prevalence data and restricted access to advanced therapies. Chile has developed a national registry alongside recent public health policies expanding access to diabetes technologies, offering a unique opportunity to evaluate both disease burden and system response.
Objectives
To estimate T1D prevalence in individuals <19 years in Chile and to describe national expansion of insulin pump therapy and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) within a public health framework.
Methods
Descriptive analysis of the national T1D registry (2025) and national coverage data for insulin pumps up to 2026.
Results
A total of 5062 individuals <19 years with T1D were identified, corresponding to a prevalence of 102 per 100,000 (1.02 per 1,000), within international ranges and representing one of the most comprehensive national estimates in the region. Technology access has expanded through public policies. Since 2018, insulin pump therapy has been funded under the Ricarte Soto Law, reaching 2822 users by 2026, with 71.2% in the Metropolitan Region. Notably, 561 users are aged 0–9 years and 796 are aged 10–24 years, reflecting substantial coverage in both pediatric and transitional populations. In 2025, CGM was incorporated into the national GES program for individuals <18 years, further broadening access to intensive diabetes management. Compared to most Latin American settings, where advanced therapies remain largely privately funded, Chile demonstrates a structured expansion of publicly financed diabetes technologies.
Conclusions
Chile combines robust national prevalence estimation with a rapid expansion of access to diabetes technologies across pediatric and transitional age groups. This dual development positions the country as an emerging regional model for integrating epidemiological surveillance with equitable access to advanced T1D care.