Smoking isn’t just a bad habit; it’s a risk to your entire well-being. We all know smoking can lead to serious health issues like lung disease and heart problems, but taking proactive steps can make a huge difference. While quitting smoking is the most effective way to protect yourself, regular health check-ups are vital for spotting any damage early on. We spoke to our expert Dr Rakesh Kumar Sharma, Head of Department and Senior Consultant, Department of Medical Oncology, SHALBY Sanar International Hospitals, Gurugram, who listed eight crucial tests every smoker should consider.
8 Crucial Tests Every Smoker Needs to Protect Their Health
These tests are designed to catch potential issues before they become serious and ensure you’re taking control of your health.
1. Chest X-ray
A chest X-ray is one of the first steps doctors take when assessing the lungs of a smoker. The X-ray provides an image of your chest and helps detect any issues caused due to smoking. According to a 2012 study, airway disease caused by cigarette smoking often leads to a general increase in non-specific lung markings on chest X-rays, a condition commonly referred to as ‘dirty chest.’
2. Spirometry
Spirometry is a breathing test used to measure how well your lungs are working. By blowing into a machine, the test evaluates how much air you can inhale and exhale and how quickly. “This test is crucial for diagnosing conditions like COPD, a chronic lung disease that obstructs airflow from the lungs and is prevalent among smokers. Spirometry helps in determining the severity of any lung damage and monitors your lung function over time, making it a key test for early intervention,” said Dr Sharma.
Also Read: Third-Hand Smoking: What To Know About The Risks And Complications?
3. CT Scan
A Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LD-CT) scan is an effective tool for identifying significant health issues like lung cancer. It delivers high-quality diagnostic images, enabling doctors to detect conditions, such as lung cancer, at an earlier and more treatable stage.
4. High-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (Hs-CRP) test
Inflammation is a major contributor to heart disease, and the Hs-CRP test measures the levels of C-reactive protein in your blood, an indicator of inflammation. Smoking causes chronic inflammation in the body, which heightens the risk of heart attacks and strokes. This test is especially useful for detecting cardiovascular risk early on, even if no symptoms are present. Elevated Hs-CRP levels can signal potential heart problems, prompting necessary preventive steps.
5. Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An ECG measures the electrical activity of your heart and can reveal abnormalities that may indicate heart disease or an increased risk of heart attacks. Smoking negatively affects the cardiovascular system by raising blood pressure, reducing oxygen supply to the heart, and causing plaque buildup in the arteries. Regular ECGs can help detect arrhythmias or other heart-related issues at an earlier stage, allowing for timely interventions.
Also Read: Smoking And Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: How Does Smoking Trigger COPD and Management Tips
6. Diabetes Screening
Smoking makes the body more resistant to insulin leading to higher levels of blood sugar. This is why a diabetes screening test is strongly recommended for smokers. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), smokers have a 30-40% greater likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes compared to non-smokers, and the risk increases with heavier smoking.
7. Vitamin D Blood test
Dr Sharma added, “Vitamin D deficiency is common in smokers, especially in those over 40. Smoking interferes with the body’s ability to absorb and metabolise Vitamin D, essential for bone health and immune function. A lack of Vitamin D can lead to weak bones, frequent infections, and a higher risk of fractures.”
8. Kidney Function Tests
Smoking increases the risk of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), particularly in individuals with diabetes or heart disease. CKD develops gradually and often presents no symptoms in the early stages, making it harder to detect. Kidney function tests assess how well your kidneys are filtering waste and can help spot problems early. Monitoring kidney health is crucial, especially for smokers, since kidney damage can progress silently and become irreversible if left unchecked.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]