JAMA Netw Open

Complex childhood conditions tied to longer hospital stays, readmissions

February 2, 2026

In a retrospective cohort study of nearly 20,000 hospitalizations among adults aged 18 to 39 years, childhood‑onset complex chronic conditions (4Cs) accounted for just 6.7% of admissions but 10.7% of total hospital bed‑days. Compared with peers without 4Cs, these patients had significantly longer lengths of stay (62% longer), higher costs, and higher 30‑day readmission rates, without differences in ICU admission or in‑hospital mortality. The most prevalent pediatric conditions were hereditary anemias, cystic fibrosis, and cerebral palsy.

Clinical takeaway: Identify adults with childhood‑onset complex conditions early during hospitalization and prioritize coordinated, transition‑informed care to reduce prolonged stays and readmissions.

Source:

Malecki SL, et al. (2026, January 28). JAMA Netw Open. Characteristics and Outcomes of Adults Hospitalized With Childhood-Onset Complex Chronic Conditions. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41604155/