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Canadian study finds 1 in 4 chance of someone developing COPD
One out of every four people over the age of 35 can expect to develop COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in their lifetime, according to a large new Canadian study.
Though many people may be unaware of what COPD is, researchers say the risks of developing the disease are much higher than the risks of heart failure, or breast cancer or prostate cancer.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a still relatively new term that includes both chronic bronchitis and emphysema; in fact, many people with COPD have both conditions.
Both diseases narrow the airways, causing shortness of breath and a long-lasting cough as well as mucus buildup. COPD is incurable and typically worsens with time.
Not everyone is at risk of COPD; and this study was not meant to assess any one person’s individual risk of developing it.
