Probability of Developing COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects approximately 16 million diagnosed Americans, though the CDC estimates the true number is likely much higher due to underdiagnosis. COPD is the 6th leading cause of death in the US, killing about 150,000 people per year. About 6.4% of US adults report having COPD.

COPD is primarily caused by long-term exposure to lung irritants, with cigarette smoking being the cause in about 80-90% of cases. Other causes include occupational dust and chemical exposure, indoor air pollution (particularly from biomass fuel burning in developing countries), alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (a genetic condition affecting about 1 in 2,500 people), and childhood respiratory infections.

Symptoms include chronic cough, shortness of breath (especially with exertion), wheezing, chest tightness, and frequent respiratory infections. COPD is progressive and incurable, but treatments can slow progression and improve quality of life. These include bronchodilator inhalers, inhaled corticosteroids, pulmonary rehabilitation (which improves exercise capacity and quality of life), supplemental oxygen, and in severe cases, lung volume reduction surgery or lung transplant. Quitting smoking is the single most effective intervention, significantly slowing disease progression at any stage.