COPD
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Chronic lower respiratory disease, mainly COPD, is the third leading cause of death in the US. While tobacco smoke is the primary cause, 1 in 6 people with COPD have never smoked. Air pollutants at home (secondhand smoke), at work (fumes), and genetics can also cause COPD. Symptoms include-chronic or smoker's cough, chronic phlegm production, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Early detection and treatment may change its course. A breathing test can measure lung function and detect COPD in those at risk. Treatment requires a careful and thorough doctor's evaluation, avoiding tobacco smoke, and removing air pollutants from the home and at work. Symptoms may be treated with medication.
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Key Facts
- COPD refers to a group of diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems.
- COPD affects more than 15 million Americans.
- More than 120,000 Americans die of COPD each year - that is 1 death every 4 minutes!
- The most important aspect of treatment for COPD is avoiding tobacco smoke and other air pollutants.
Media
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Prevention of COPD begins with reducing and eliminating smoking initiation among teenagers and young adults and encouraging tobacco cessation among current smokers.
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Individuals with a history of smoking or a family history of COPD and who also have respiratory symptoms should ask their physician for a spirometry test to determine if they have COPD.
Prevention Tips
In certain situations, COPD may be preventable. There are several opportunities for prevention. Some of the most important are:
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If you are a smoker, quit. Approximately 75% of COPD deaths are attributed to cigarette smoking.
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Avoid exposure to air pollutants in the home and workplace.
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Get vaccinated during flu season if you have COPD to reduce the risk of flare-ups.
- Page last reviewed: March 3, 2016
- Page last updated: March 3, 2016
- Content source:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Page maintained by: Office of Associate Director of Communication, Division of Public Affairs