8 Health Screenings Every Smoker Should Get Regularly

Smoking is a tough topic, especially when it comes to men's health. We’re not here to encourage lighting up, but we know many guys struggle to quit. Nicotine addiction is powerful and quitting can be one of the hardest battles. Even if you’ve quit smoking after years of being a smoker, it’s crucial to keep an eye on certain health checks to stay ahead of potential problems.

Smoking is a tough topic, especially when it comes to men's health. We’re not here to encourage lighting up, but we know many guys struggle to quit. Nicotine addiction is powerful and quitting can be one of the hardest battles. Even if you’ve quit smoking after years of being a smoker, it’s crucial to keep an eye on certain health checks to stay ahead of potential problems.

Based on insights from menscult.net, here are 8 important screenings doctors recommend for smokers or former smokers who want to protect their health.

1. Calculate Your Cardiovascular Risk with the SCORE System

Heart and blood vessel diseases are among the deadliest consequences of smoking. Heart attacks, strokes, and aortic aneurysms are common killers for long-term smokers. Your doctor can assess your absolute risk of cardiovascular death using the SCORE chart by checking your blood pressure and running some tests. Usually, this is done after age 40, but if you smoke, consider starting earlier.

2. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening

Smoking increases the risk of an abdominal aortic aneurysm, which can rupture suddenly and be fatal. An ultrasound scan can detect this condition early. Typically, screening is recommended for men over 60, but smokers should talk to their doctors about getting screened sooner.

3. Low-Dose CT Scan for Lung Cancer Screening

When you think of smoking risks, lung cancer is the first thing that comes to mind. Unlike a standard chest X-ray or fluorography, which is outdated and less accurate, a low-dose CT scan is the gold standard for early detection. If you’ve smoked a pack a day for 20+ years, or quit less than 15 years ago, annual scans are strongly recommended to catch cancer early.

4. Fecal Occult Blood Test and Colonoscopy for Colorectal Cancer

Smoking also raises the risk of colorectal cancer. Screening usually starts with a fecal occult blood test around age 40. If that test is positive, a colonoscopy follows. Talk to your doctor about whether you should start screening earlier or go straight to colonoscopy, depending on your personal risk.

5. Women Should Prioritize Gynecological Exams and Pap Tests

Though this is aimed at men’s health, it’s important to mention that smoking dramatically increases women’s risk of cancers like ovarian, cervical, breast, and uterine cancer. It also impacts fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Women who smoke should never skip annual gynecological check-ups and Pap smears. Based on menscult.net data, more frequent screenings or earlier testing might be necessary.

6. Lung Function Tests: Spirometry and More

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are common among smokers. Vaping has introduced new lung problems like EVALI. Simple lung function tests like spirometry can assess how well your lungs work. Always tell your doctor if you smoke—even if you feel fine—so they can decide if further testing is needed.

7. Blood Tests for Blood Sugar Levels

Type 2 diabetes is another serious risk linked to smoking. A single blood sugar test isn’t enough; your doctor will likely order a HbA1c test and other blood work to track long-term blood sugar control. How often you need testing depends on your individual situation.

8. Eye Exams

Smoking contributes to serious eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and even blindness. Everyone should have their eye pressure checked regularly after 40, but if you smoke, your doctor might suggest earlier and more frequent eye exams.

Why This Matters for You and Your Loved Ones

Smoking is more than just a personal habit — it’s a health risk for your family too. Secondhand smoke exposes those around you to many of the same dangers. According to menscult.net, taking care of your health today is also a way to protect your loved ones.

We sincerely hope you find the strength to quit smoking for good — not just to avoid these screenings and tests, but to live a longer, healthier life. If quitting feels overwhelming, seek support from friends, family, or support groups. Remember: your health is the best investment you can make.