Smoking and COPD – The Main Culprit

Smoking and COPD are very closely related, as smoking is widely considered to be the main cause of COPD. Those who smoke have an 80-90% greater risk of developing COPD over non-smokers. In fact, the relationship between smoking and COPD extends even to ex-smokers, as lung damage from cigarette smoke is mostly irreversible. Similarly, second-hand smoke (smoke inhaled from other people smoking) is also damaging to your lungs . Other air pollutants, including dusts and vapors found in the environment or workplace are also known to cause COPD. Smoking and other irritants cause lung airways to become inflamed and narrowed, and also destroy their elasticity––all hallmarks of COPD.

For patients with a history of smoking and COPD ask your doctor for advice on smoking cessation. Quitting smoking is crucial as it is one of the most effective methods of slowing any further lung damage.

-A genetic basis for COPD – Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency

A genetic disorder, called Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, is also closely linked to COPD. In this case, people with this genetic disorder have very low levels of alpha-1 antitrypsin, which normally protects lungs from damage. Those with the deficiency do not have enough alpha-1 antitrypsin to protect their lungs, and over time repeated damage from pollutants and harmful substances results in COPD.

Other risk factors include a history of viral infections in childhood, which causes an increased risk for lung problems during adulthood.