Got Questions about COPD? We’ve Got Answers.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has long been thought of as a condition that men have — particularly men who smoke. Right now, you might be picturing an old-time photo of a coal miner or a man in his 70s who’s been a lifelong heavy smoker.In reality, women and people assigned female at birth are not only more likely to develop COPD, but are at an increased risk of death from COPD compared to men. According to the American Lung Association, millions of people are living with COPD and don’t know they have it. Here’s what you need to know about COPD, including why and how it affects women differently, factors that increase the risk for COPD and how this lung condition can be managed. What is COPD? COPD is a chronic lung condition that means your lung tissue and airways have become damaged, making breathing more difficult. Two main conditions fall under the COPD umbrella:Chronic bronchitis, where the breathing tubes narrow as a result of inflammation and scarring, making it harder to breathe air out (exhale).Emphysema, where there’s damage to the tiny air sacs in the lungs, making it harder to breathe air in (inhale). COPD is the leading cause of death in the U.S. for wome...