Who can get emphysema?

Emphysema is a chronic lung disease that causes shortness of breath. It is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is a group of lung diseases that block airflow to the lungs.

Emphysema is most often caused by smoking. Other risk factors include:

* Exposure to secondhand smoke

* Air pollution

* Chemical fumes

* Dust

* Age

* Genetics

Emphysema is more common in men than in women. It is also more common in people who live in urban areas.

Emphysema can be a serious disease. It can lead to disability and even death. There is no cure for emphysema, but there are treatments that can help improve symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.