COPD: 5 things to know

Five Things You Should Know About COPD

  1. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease characterized by the fundamental inability to blow enough air out of your lungs. Symptoms such as shortness of breath, sputum production, wheezing and chest tightness may be mild at first, but progressively worsen. COPD is often not diagnosed until lung damage is severe and irreversible.
  2. At least 15 million Americans have COPD. Women are at higher risk compared to men. COPD is the third leading cause of death in the United States
  3. Smoking is the top risk factor for COPD, but it is also caused by significant exposure to air pollution (e.g. occupational) and/or second-hand smoke. There is a known genetic component, and researchers are actively investigating other potential causes and mechanisms of disease.
  4. The first and foremost treatment for COPD is smoking cessation, which can dramatically slow disease progression and reduce the risk for other tobacco-related conditions like cancer, heart attacks and stroke. Because lung damage is often irreversible, current therapies focus upon easing symptoms and improving quality of life.
  5. New drugs and therapies are being developed, but so far no safe, long-term remedy for COPD has been found. The best bet to avoid COPD: Don’t smoke. If you do, quit now.