Back-to-School, Birthdays & Blood Sugar: Why Now's the Perfect Time to Schedule Your Diabetes Check-Ups

Written by a dietitian who just had a big birthday with cake…and an A1C draw

It was my birthday recently (yes, there was cake, and yes, I balanced it with other foods), and it got me thinking, this is the time of year when everything starts fresh again. School supplies are flying off the shelves, kids are heading back to class, and whether or not you have little ones in your life, there's just something about August that feels like a new chapter.

So, let's talk about something that deserves a fresh start, too: your diabetes check-ups.

If you haven't scheduled them yet (or don't even remember what you should be scheduling), don't worry. Let's break it down, with a little help from the American Diabetes Association (ADA), and maybe a little birthday wisdom, too.

🗓️ What Diabetes Check-Ups Do I Actually Need?

Whether you've lived with diabetes for years or are still getting used to the diagnosis, keeping up with regular screenings and labs is one of the best ways to prevent complications. Think of it like maintaining a car: even if it's running well, it needs regular service to stay that way.

Here's your diabetes tune-up schedule to keep you running smoothly.

1. A1C – Every 3–6 Months

This lab gives you a picture of your average blood sugar over the last 2–3 months. If your blood sugars are generally stable and you're hitting your targets, every 6 months is fine. If your treatment is changing or things are a bit wobbly, go every 3 months.

🎂 Birthday bonus: I get mine done right around my birthday. It's my annual check-in gift to myself, along with some very well-counted cake.

2. Blood Pressure Check – Every Visit

High blood pressure can sneak up quietly, and it increases your risk for heart disease and kidney issues. Make sure it's checked whenever you're at the doctor.

3. Cholesterol Panel (Lipid Panel) – At least once a year

Even if your numbers are good, this one helps guide heart-healthy choices and determine whether medications like statins are appropriate.

4. Kidney Function Tests (Creatinine + eGFR & Urine Albumin) – Once a year

These labs help catch early signs of kidney disease. If you have risk factors (like high blood pressure), your doctor might check them more often.

5. Dilated Eye Exam – Once a year

Even if your vision seems fine, diabetes can affect the small blood vessels in your eyes. An annual eye exam with dilation helps catch problems early (and might even explain why your contacts have felt weird lately).

6. Foot Exam – At least once a year

Your provider should check for nerve damage and circulation issues. If you've had foot problems in the past, more frequent exams may be needed. And if you're hiding those socks full of holes… now's the time to treat yourself to a fresh pair.

7. Dental Visit – Twice a year

Gum disease is more common (and more serious) in people with diabetes. Your dentist is part of your diabetes care team, too!

📚 Back-to-School = Back to You

With the school year kicking off, it's not just about getting the kids their shots and backpacks. It's a reminder that your health needs to be on the calendar, too. If you're like many people I work with, you've been putting off appointments, maybe waiting for "the right time"; well, here it is.

⏰ Not Sure Where to Start?

Here's a checklist of things to schedule:

• Schedule your next A1C (especially if it's been more than 6 months)

• Book an eye exam

• Ask your provider if you're due for labs or a foot check

• Make time for a dental cleaning

• Review your medications with your healthcare team

If it feels overwhelming, start with just one appointment. One call. One check-in. You don't have to do everything all at once, but doing nothing at all isn't helping future you. It's also important to note that how often you need to do these items will depend on your needs.

🎉 Final Thoughts from a Birthday Dietitian

Managing diabetes can feel like a full-time job sometimes. But I promise, these check-ups aren't just another thing on your to-do list. These are opportunities to catch any problems early, adjust what's not working, and celebrate what is.

So, as the backpacks and lunchboxes get packed, take a moment to look at your own calendar.

You're worth it.

Happy Birthday to you! If you would like a more in-depth checklist along with what each test is looking for, check out my Screening Schedule printable, free to download for a limited time.