Who Is at Risk for COPD?

The risk factors for COPD include:

• Smoking. This is the main risk factor. Up to 75 percent of people who have COPD smoke or used to smoke.
• Long term exposure to other lung irritants. These irritants can include secondhand smoke, air pollution, chemical fumes, and dusts from the environment or workplace.
• Age. Most people who have COPD are at least 40 years old when their symptoms begin.
• Genetics. This includes the genetic condition alpha–1 antitrypsin deficiency. Smokers who have a family history of COPD are more likely to develop COPD.

For more information about risk factors and preventing COPD, see Protecting Your Lungs.

For more information about military–specific risk factors, see Military and Veterans Lung Disease.

If you choose to enroll in our COPD DM program, you will be paired with a registered respiratory therapist or nurse who will help you understand your risk factors and make lifestyle changes that will improve how you feel.

Learn more and begin the enrollment process now.

Source: From COPD Summary, by the U.S. National Library of Medicine