What is the greatest risk factor for developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Cigarette smoking is recognized as the greatest risk factor for developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The damaging effects of tobacco smoke on the lungs lead to chronic inflammation, airway obstruction, and progressive lung function decline. Studies have shown that a significant proportion of COPD cases are attributed to long-term smoking, making it a primary cause of the disease.

This risk factor is particularly insidious because the harmful changes in lung tissue can occur over many years and may not present noticeable symptoms until the disease has progressed considerably. While exposure to air pollution, occupational hazards, and a history of asthma can contribute to the development of COPD, these factors generally have a lesser impact on the population risk compared to the high prevalence of smoking among individuals affected by the disease. This highlights the critical importance of smoking cessation and prevention strategies in combating COPD.