What Tests Should Be Done Every Year If You Have Diabetes?
Quick answer
- If you have diabetes, a yearly review should include HbA1c (more often if needed), a kidney check (urine albumin and serum creatinine), a lipid profile, an eye examination, a foot examination, and blood pressure and weight checks.
- An ECG or heart assessment is added based on your risk.
Core Yearly Tests
1. HbA1c
Checked every three to six months, it shows how well your sugar has been controlled.
2. Kidney tests
Urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio and serum creatinine (eGFR) detect early kidney damage, often before symptoms appear.
3. Lipid profile
Cholesterol and triglycerides help assess heart risk.
4. Dilated eye examination
Detects diabetic retinopathy early, when treatment works best.
5. Foot examination
Checks sensation, circulation and skin to prevent ulcers.
6. Blood pressure
Measured at every visit.
7. Weight and waist measurement
Helps track metabolic health.
Other Checks Based on Your Situation
- ECG or echocardiogram if you have heart risk factors.
- Liver function tests, since fatty liver is common in diabetes.
- Thyroid tests, especially in type 1 diabetes or if symptoms are present.
- Vitamin B12 levels in people on long-term metformin.
- Dental check-up.
- Vaccinations as advised, such as flu and pneumococcal.
How to Prepare
Carry your previous reports and sugar log. Wear comfortable footwear that is easy to remove. Ask your doctor what each result means and what the target is.
Key Takeaways
- Yearly checks catch complications early.
- Kidney, eye, foot and heart checks are essential.
- Extra tests depend on your health and medicines.
- Keep a record of all results.
Final Thoughts
Complications develop silently, and yearly checks are your best protection. Dr. Tamoghna Das, an internal medicine and cardio-diabetology specialist at Medcare Diabetes & Obesity Clinic, can plan a complete annual review for you.
This article is part of our guide to type 2 diabetes symptoms and treatment, written for patients and families in Bongaigaon.
FAQs
Do I need an eye test even if I see well?
Yes. Retinopathy can be present without symptoms.
Why test urine in diabetes?
Albumin in urine is an early sign of kidney damage.
How often is the foot examination needed?
At least once a year, and more often if there is nerve damage or poor circulation.
Is a lipid profile needed every year?
Usually yes, or as your doctor advises.
Do I need an ECG every year?
It depends on your age and risk factors.
Can these tests be done on the same day?
Often yes, and clinics can group them for convenience.
Sources
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tamoghna Das, MBBS, MD (Medicine) · Assam Council of Medical Registration No. 20276 · Last reviewed 2 October 2026
Medical disclaimer. This article is for general information only. It is not a diagnosis and is not a substitute for a consultation with a doctor. For advice about your own health, please book an appointment. Read our medical disclaimer.
Seek urgent care now, call 108 or 112, or go to the nearest emergency department if you have chest pain, sudden breathlessness, fainting, weakness on one side of the body, very high blood sugar with vomiting or drowsiness, repeated low blood sugar with confusion, or a foot wound with redness, swelling or fever.
