Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is currently the fourth leading cause of death in the world and is estimated to be the third leading cause by 2020, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The main drawback of COPD is that it reduces respiratory capacity, which is normally not recoverable. Smoking is the main and almost the only cause of the disease. Smoking cessation is the main measure to prevent its progression, but the use of bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids improves respiratory function.
Causes of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
In Spain and, in general, in developed countries, smoking is the main (and almost the only) cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). No differences have been shown in the production of COPD according to the different types of tobacco (blond or dark). Likewise, “light” cigarettes have not been shown to reduce the incidence of COPD.
There is a rare hereditary form of the disease: alpha-1-antitryoptin deficiency. This is a protein that is responsible for lung defense. Its deficiency can lead to COPD and, in addition, usually to severe forms of the disease. A routine screening for this process can be performed by means of a simple blood test.
COPD risk symptoms
Cough and dyspnea, choking or shortness of breath, are the cardinal symptoms of COPD. It should be noted that dyspnea may appear when a large part of the respiratory capacity has already been lost, which is usually not recoverable. It is therefore advisable to consult a physician expert in Pneumology if cough persists for more than three months, even if it is scarce and exclusively in the morning.
Prevention of COPD Worsening and Treatment Recommendations
Smoking cessation is the only measure that has been shown to be effective in preventing worsening of the disease. Likewise, the use of drugs, such as bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids, improve respiratory function and symptoms and delay the worsening of the disease.
An adequate vaccination program and healthy lifestyle habits, such as walking 30 minutes a day and avoiding excess weight, also help to improve symptoms and prolong patient survival. In advanced cases with severe deterioration of respiratory function, pulmonary rehabilitation programs and home oxygen therapy have also proved effective.
Advances in the treatment of COPD
At the pharmacological level, fixed-dose combinations of long-acting bronchodilators currently stand out, which have been shown to improve lung function, symptoms, exercise tolerance and overall quality of life. However, the most important measure is smoking cessation.
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