It is one of the most common respiratory diseases, due to chronic lung inflammation that obstructs airflow. It is also associated with an increased risk of developing other diseases (respiratory infections, lung cancer, etc.). It has a worldwide prevalence of 13% and although it is progressive, proper control maintains quality of life and reduces the risks of other pathologies.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two most common conditions that contribute to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Emphysema is the destruction of the bronchioles, the respiratory structure that allows the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, as a result of harmful exposure to tobacco smoke and other irritating gases and particles. Chronic bronchitis results from inflammation of the lining of the bronchi.
The main cause of COPD in developed countries is smoking, although other irritants can cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, including cigarette smoke itself, environmental pollution and workplace exposure to dust, smoke or toxic gases. In developing countries, it is mostly associated with exposure to fumes from burning fuels for cooking and heating in poorly ventilated homes.

Symptoms
COPD frequently appears around the age of 40-50 years, but has a slow progression and progressive worsening. Symptoms usually do not appear until significant lung damage occurs and often worsen over time, especially if exposure to tobacco continues. Over time it can limit a person's ability to perform daily activities and, in severe cases, can prevent them from performing even the most basic activities. Common symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity.
- Wheezing (whistling) in the chest.
- A feeling of tightness in the chest.
- Chronic cough that may produce mucus.
- Frequent respiratory infections.
- Lack of energy.
- Unintentional weight loss.
Prevention
The best method of prevention is to reduce risk factors. These are the same ones that can trigger, worsen the disease when it is already established or exacerbate its symptoms.
- Quitting smoking is the most important measure that can be taken. It is also important to avoid second-hand smoke.
- Exercise regularly as much as possible.
- Maintain a balanced diet and an appropriate weight. Avoid large meals, especially dinner, alcoholic beverages, and limit carbonated beverages.
- Avoid very cold environments.
- Reduce air pollution in the home by eliminating chimney smoke and other irritants.
- Get vaccinated against influenza and pneumococcus to reduce the risk or prevent these common respiratory infections.
Number of observed variants
13.5 million variants
Number of risk loci
80 loci
Genes analyzed
Bibliography
Blanco I et al. ES Geographic distribution of COPD prevalence in the world displayed by Geographic Information System maps. Eur Respir J. 2019 Jul 18;54(1):1900610.
Sakornsakolpat P et al. Genetic landscape of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease identify heterogeneous cell-type and phenotype associations. Nature Genetics. 2019 Mar;51(3):494-505.