Abbott Laboratories slashed its full-year earnings forecast to $5.38 to $5.58 per share, falling short of Wall Street's $5.60 consensus. The medical products maker attributed the reduced outlook to its recent acquisition of cancer-diagnostics company Exact Sciences, completed earlier than anticipated, which will dent adjusted earnings by 20 cents per share this year.

The healthcare giant also faced challenges from a milder-than-expected flu season that suppressed demand for diagnostic tests. JPMorgan analysts noted the early acquisition completion created a 2 cents per share headwind during the first quarter and forced Abbott to secure loans sooner than planned.

The dual impact of the costly acquisition and weak seasonal demand contributed to declining profits in the recent period. Investors now face a slower growth trajectory as the company integrates Exact Sciences while navigating unpredictable healthcare demand patterns affecting its core diagnostic testing business.