Which screening is recommended annually for athletes with diabetes?

• A. Annual examination for retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy (with foot examination)
• B. Hearing screening
• C. Sleep apnea evaluation
• D. Dental check-up only

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is the importance of yearly screening for diabetes-related complications in athletes with diabetes. Diabetes can affect eyes, kidneys, and nerves regardless of how actively someone competes, so checking these areas every year helps detect problems early and prevent lasting damage.

The best choice targets the major diabetes complications: retinopathy (eye damage), nephropathy (kidney involvement), and neuropathy (nerve damage) with a foot examination. Eye screening catches vision-threatening changes early, kidney screening looks for signs of kidney disease, and a foot exam checks for loss of sensation that could lead to unnoticed injuries—crucial for athletes who push their bodies and rely on mobility and balance. Together, these annual checks support safe participation in sports and overall health management.

Hearing screening, sleep apnea evaluation, and a dental check-up, while potentially important for general health, are not the standard annual diabetes complication screenings used to monitor the specific risks associated with diabetes.