Causes / Risk Factors of COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

Most COPD is caused by inhalation of pollutants.   Including:

•    Smoking (LEADING CAUSE IN U.S.) and second-hand smoke - ~90% of those with COPD have  a history of smoking; 

•    Chemicals, fumes, dust in occupational environments - especially those who have had long term exposure

•    In the developing world, breathing cooking fuel or poorly vented heating fumes  

Being over 40 years old and male.   Although most COPD deaths are women

Genetics.    ~1% of those with COPD have a deficiency of  liver-produced, lung-protective alpha-1 antitrypsin protein (AAt), which is the most commonly known genetic risk for emphysema - with the result that white blood cells (WBCs) are able to harm the lungs

Bronchitis

>90% of bronchial infections are caused by a virus

Albert, RH (1 December 2010). "Diagnosis and treatment of acute bronchitis.".American family physician(11): 1345-50. PubMed