Causes - Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) happens when the lungs and airways become damaged and inflamed.

It's usually associated with long-term exposure to harmful substances such as cigarette smoke.

Things that can increase your risk of developing COPD are discussed in this section.

Smoking

Smoking is the main cause of COPD and is thought to be responsible for around 9 in every 10 cases.

The harmful chemicals in smoke can damage the lining of the lungs and airways. Stopping smoking can help prevent COPD from getting worse.

Some research also suggests that being exposed to other people's cigarette smoke (passive smoking) may increase your risk of COPD.

Fumes and dust at work

Exposure to certain types of dust and chemicals at work may damage the lungs and increase your risk of COPD.

Substances that have been linked to COPD include:

• cadmium dust and fumes
• grain and flour dust
• silica dust
• welding fumes
• isocyanates
• coal dust

The risk of COPD is even higher if you breathe in dust or fumes in the workplace and you smoke.

The Health and Safety Executive has more information about occupational causes of COPD

Air pollution

Exposure to air pollution over a long period can affect how well the lungs work and some research suggests it could increase your risk of COPD.

But the link between air pollution and COPD is not conclusive and research is continuing.

Genetics

You're more likely to develop COPD if you smoke and have a close relative with the condition, which suggests some people's genes might make them more vulnerable to the condition.

People with alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency can go on to develop COPD. Alpha-1-antitrypsin is a substance that protects your lungs. Without it, the lungs are more vulnerable to damage.

People who have an alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency usually develop COPD at a younger age – particularly if they smoke.

Asthma + Lung UK has more information about alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency

Alpha-1 UK Support Group is for people affected by alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency