August 8, 2024
How Often Should People with Diabetes Get Lipid Panel Tests?
The frequency of lipid testing for people with diabetes is a topic of significant importance, especially given a recent study1 that shows a correlation between lipid level fluctuations and the risk of diabetes complications. Here, we explore how often people with diabetes should have their lipid levels tested based on recommendations from the American Diabetes Association (ADA), and on recent research findings.
The ADA’s Recommendations on Lipid Testing
In its Standards of Care for Diabetes – 2024, ADA provides clear guidelines on lipid testing for adults with diabetes. According to the ADA2:
- Lipid profiles, including total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, should be obtained at diagnosis, during the initial medical evaluation, and at least every five years thereafter for individuals under 40.
- More frequent lipid profiles may be necessary for younger individuals with a longer duration of disease, particularly those with youth-onset type 1 diabetes.
- Lipid panels should also be obtained immediately before initiating statin therapy, 4-12 weeks after starting or changing the dosage of statins, and annually once on stable statin therapy.
Lipid Testing Insights from Recent Research
A recent study by Chen et al.,1 has shed light on the benefits of more frequent lipid testing. The Chen study specifically investigated the impact of lipid variability on the development of complications in patients with type 2 diabetes. The retrospective analysis of 369 patients revealed that fluctuations in lipid levels—particularly triglycerides and total cholesterol—were significantly associated with the occurrence of diabetic complications, such as peripheral neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease.
Key findings from the study include:
- High variability in total cholesterol (TC-SD) and triglycerides (TG-SD) was identified as a risk factor for complications.
- Consistent management and monitoring of lipid levels could serve as a protective factor against the development of these complications.
Who Benefits from More Frequent Lipid Testing?
While the ADA’s 2024 guidelines offer a practical and less burdensome approach to lipid testing, The Chen, et al study1 suggests that more frequent monitoring could potentially lead to better management of diabetes-related complications. An individualized approach to care based on a patient’s specific health profile may be the most beneficial.
For patients with stable lipid levels, and lower risks of developing complications, healthcare providers may believe that the ADA’s baseline and periodic lipid testing are appropriate. But healthcare providers might want to consider more frequent lipid testing for patients if they have a history of lipid variability or are at high risk for diabetes complications.
By identifying and addressing lipid variability early, the onset or progression of severe complications may be prevented.1
Point-of-Care Empowers Personalized Care
Healthcare providers can help patients make informed decisions about their care by emphasizing personalized care, educating them about the risks of lipid variability, and promoting the benefits of lipid testing. For patients who need frequent lipid testing, CardioChek Plus makes the process quick, easy, and less disruptive, especially for those managing complex diabetes regimens. Offering point-of-care, fingerstick lipid testing can reduce the need for patients to make several additional visits to a lab each year. This also empowers patients to take proactive steps in managing their health, which may improve outcomes and enhance quality of life for people with diabetes.
Sources
1 Chen, M., Pu, L., Gan, Y. et al. The association between variability of risk factors and complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a retrospective study. Sci Rep 14, 6357 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-56777-w
2 American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee; 10. Cardiovascular Disease and Risk Management: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2024. Diabetes Care 1 January 2024; 47 (Supplement_1): S179–S218. https://doi.org/10.2337/dc24-S010
MKG 003427 Rev. 0 08/2024