COPD Causes: Understanding the Risk Factors & Leading Cause

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is not caused by a single pathogen. It is a group of lung diseases that block airflow and can cause breathing-related problems. The main cause of COPD is cigarette smoking, which damages the lungs and causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways. Other risk factors for COPD include exposure to secondhand smoke, occupational dust and fumes, and air pollution.