AJMC September 26, 2024
While smoking is a key risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), significant prevalence also exists among nonsmokers, highlighting the need for broader public health strategies.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remains a significant public health challenge in the US among current smokers, ex-smokers, and never smokers alike, according to a study published in Tobacco Induced Diseases.
Although it is the primary risk factor, the researchers explained that smoking is not the sole determinant of COPD; data from 2019 found that nonsmokers make up about one-third of the 391.9 million people between the ages of 30 and 79 years with COPD worldwide. Other notable risk factors include air pollutants, biomass fuels, and a history of respiratory infections.
Consequently, the...
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