P-285: Early diagnosis of type 1 diabetes: reducing ketoacidosis at diagnosis to lower mortality - a community extension project
A Bresciani, R L JuniorAbstract
Introduction
T1DM incidence is rising by up to 5% annually in children. Its main complication, Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA), is the leading cause of pediatric mortality and neurological sequelae. Since the shift to metabolic collapse is rapid, early diagnosis is vital to prevent fatal outcomes and intensive care admissions.
Objectives
The campaign “CAREFUL, IT COULD BE DIABETES!” aims to prevent Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) through early diagnosis. It focuses on raising awareness of key symptoms—polyuria, polydipsia, weight loss, and enuresis—to ensure timely medical intervention before life-threatening complications arise.
Methods
This project employs a multichannel strategy, utilizing social media, radio, and school outreach. By training educators to recognize early warning signs like heavy diapers or frequent urination, the initiative builds a community safety net that bridges the gap between symptom onset and clinical screening.
Results
Analysis from the Hospital das Clínicas de Ribeirão Preto confirms the campaign’s impact. In 2024, 74% of new diagnoses presented with DKA, 35% of which were severe. By 2025, prevalence dropped to 66.6%. A major shift occurred in 2026, where DKA incidence plummeted to 20%, meaning 80% of cases were identified before severe metabolic complications. The focus on indicators like diaper weight was particularly effective for infants, a demographic where symptoms are often overlooked.
Conclusions
Information campaigns are high-yield, low-cost tools for saving lives. The reduction of DKA from 74% to 20% proves that health education enables intervention before severe metabolic acidosis occurs. This ensures a safer start to treatment, reduces hospital costs, and preserves the long-term cognitive development of children.