What is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic lung disease that results in obstruction of the airways. It usually refers to two disorders: chronic bronchitis and pulmonary emphysema.

What causes it?

Smoking is the main cause of COPD. Occupational exposure to chemical fumes and organic dusts (such as wood, mining dusts) can also be a risk factor.

What are the common symptoms?

COPD results from chronic irritation and inflammation of the airways, and develops gradually over the years and worsens with time. Symptoms range from being barely noticeable to incapacitating. Common symptoms of COPD include:

• Chronic cough
  
• Shortness of breath
  

What are the effects?

Although chronic bronchitis and pulmonary emphysema are diseases that progress slowly, they can compromise the lung function and lead to complications including chest infections which can be fatal.

How can I prevent it?

You can lower your risk of having COPD by:

• No smoking.
  
• Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
  
• Observe occupational health measures by wearing mask to reduce inhalation of organic dust.
  

There is no cure for COPD. But there are treatments such as medication along with lifestyle changes that can control and slow down the progress of this disease. The choice of an appropriate treatment is based on the severity of the symptoms, the extent to which they affect the patient's life, and the presence of any other medical conditions.

Central Health Education Unit
Hotline: 2833 0111

Organizations Offering Help
Department of Health Smoking Cessation Hotline
Phone: 2961 8883

Smoking Cessation Health Centre
Phone: 2855 0787

United Christian Nethersole Community Health Service -
Smoke Free Club
Phone: 2717 1989