Diseases

Copd (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (copd) is a long-term, progressive lung disease that makes breathing difficult. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are types of copd. In 2004, about 64 million people around the world were living with copd.

Impact of copd around the world
Risk factors and prevention
Risk factors for copd include:
smoking or secondhand smoke
lung irritants like chemical fumes
family history, with the aatd gene being linked to copd
history of respiratory infections as a child
There’s no cure for copd, but its progression can be slowed with medication. The best ways to prevent copd are to stop smoking and to avoid secondhand smoke and other lung irritants. If you experience any copd symptoms, getting treatment as soon as possible increases your outlook.