Regular preventive care is especially important when you have diabetes. The following chart is based on the recommended preventive care testing guidelines from both the ADA and the AACE.

Please remember that these are guidelines only, and you may need more frequent and/or additional diagnostic testing based on your particular medical history and diabetic complications.

For example, if you have known kidney problems, your physician will test your microalbumin levels more frequently, and if you have coronary artery disease, your regular visits may include additional cardiovascular assessment. Your diabetes care provider should discuss testing recommendations specific to your needs.

*Most adult patients should have fasting lipid profiles performed at least annually, according to ADA guidelines. Low-risk adults (LDL <100 mg/dl, HDL >50 mg/dl, triglycerides <150) can be tested every two years.

**The ADA recommends that annual microalbumin screening start at diagnosis in patients with type 2 diabetes, and five years after diagnosis in patients with type 1.

Sources: Standards of Medical Care for Patients with Diabetes Mellitus, Diabetes Care, 2008; AACE Diabetes Guidelines, 2007.