A national campaign launched this week by Diabetes UK is highlighting the health checks you need when you have diabetes, why they’re so important and some of the reasons people might not be getting them.
Life with diabetes can feel like number, check and test overload. You might feel fine, or feel like you don’t have the time. Or maybe you’re not sure what checks you should be getting. But these regular diabetes health checks are vital to keep you healthy, so you can continue living life to the full.
Health checks are tests to check your average blood sugar levels and how well your heart and kidneys are working, as well as check-ups on your eyes and feet. They can help spot signs of any changes early on, so you can get all the help and support you need.
The number of people getting all their checks has increased in the last few years, but more than one in three people still aren’t getting all the checks they need (National Diabetes Audit data, 2023-24, England and Wales).
There are lots of reasons people aren’t getting all their health checks, from not being invited, to a lack of appointments or long waiting times. But it’s not that simple, and there are many other factors affecting people getting the care they need.
Download a detailed information pack here.
