COPD is usually caused by long-term exposure to irritants that damage your lungs and airways. In the US, cigarette smoke is the main cause. Inhaling other types of smoke (pipe, cigar, biomass fuel, etc), pollution, and chemical fumes can also cause COPD. Also, some people have a genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency which makes them more likely to sustain lung damage from pollution and smoke and sometimes lead to early-onset COPD.[1]
What causes COPD?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is primarily caused by long-term exposure to lung irritants, and cigarette smoke is the leading cause in the U.S. Other contributing factors include inhaling various types of smoke, pollution, chemical fumes, and a genetic condition known as alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.