Artificial Intelligence-Driven Transformation of Pediatric Diabetes Care: A Systematic Review and Epistemic Meta-Analysis of Diagnostic, Therapeutic, and Self-Management Applications

TL;DR

Artificial intelligence is transforming pediatric diabetes care by improving diagnosis, treatment, and self-management through advanced technologies.

Contribution

This paper systematically reviews AI applications in pediatric diabetes and highlights their potential to enable predictive and personalized care.

Findings

AI-driven interventions reduced HbA1c levels and increased time in glucose range.

Predictive models improved diagnostic accuracy and early risk stratification.

Digital health platforms enhanced treatment adherence and patient autonomy.

Abstract

The limitations of conventional diabetes management are increasingly evident. As a result, both type 1 and 2 diabetes in pediatric populations have become major global health concerns. As new technologies emerge, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), they offer new opportunities to improve diagnostic accuracy, treatment outcomes, and patient self-management. A PRISMA-based systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, and BIREME. The research covered studies published up to February 2025, where twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria. These studies examined machine learning algorithms, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), closed-loop insulin delivery systems, telemedicine platforms, and digital educational interventions. AI-driven interventions were consistently associated with reductions in HbA1c and extended time in range. Furthermore, they reported earlier detection of complications, personalized insulin dosing, and greater patient autonomy. Predictive models, including digital twins and self-learning neural networks, significantly improved diagnostic accuracy and early risk stratification. Digital health platforms enhanced treatment adherence. Nonetheless, the barriers included unequal access to technology and limited long-term clinical validation. Artificial intelligence is progressively reshaping pediatric diabetes care toward a predictive, preventive, personalized, and participatory paradigm. Broader implementation will require rigorous multiethnic validation and robust ethical frameworks to ensure equitable deployment.

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