3 Risk Factors and Possible Causes of COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death in the U.S.—but what are the risk factors or probable causes for developing this lung disease? According to COPDFoundation.org, there are three main risk factors for developing COPD.
Smoking
Smoking is the number one cause of COPD and although not all people who develop the disease have a history of smoking, 90 percent of people diagnosed do.
COPD is usually diagnosed in people over the age of 40 who either still smoke or have in the past.
Find out more about the treatment and management of COPD.
Environmental Factors
Other pollutants besides tobacco smoke may cause damage to the lungs and lead to COPD if a person has been subjected to them over a long period of time. These include pollution, chemical and their fumes, and dust. Long-term exposure to second-hand cigarette smoke may also be a risk for developing the condition.
Discover how COPD affects the lungs.
Genetic Factors
For a small percentage of COPD patients, the disease is genetic. Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD) is the leading known genetic cause of emphysema 2. A lack of the Alpha-1 Antitrypsin protein allows white blood cells to damage the lung cells and can lead to COPD.
Scientists believe there may be other genetic influences as not everyone who has COPD is a smoker or has an Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency, but other genetic causes have yet to be determined.
COPD News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
About the Author
