COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a respiratory condition characterized by persistent airflow limitation that affects approximately 251 million people worldwide.

The primary cause of COPD is cigarette smoking, which accounts for 80-90% of all cases. Prolonged exposure to tobacco smoke leads to inflammation and damage in the airways and lungs, ultimately resulting in reduced lung function.

Other significant risk factors include exposure to occupational dusts and chemicals, biomass fuels used for cooking or heating in poorly ventilated environments, indoor and outdoor air pollution, and genetic predisposition.

A deficiency of alpha-1 antitrypsin, a protein involved in protecting the lungs from damage, can also increase the likelihood of developing COPD.

Although cigarette smoking remains the leading cause of this debilitating disease, it is important to recognize and address other underlying factors that contribute to its development. Public health initiatives should aim at reducing tobacco consumption while promoting clean air policies and raising awareness about occupational hazards in order to effectively prevent COPD.