Risk Factors for COPD

COPD: Know Your Risk

Exposure to certain environmental irritants over a long period of time can cause damage to your lungs and airways, ultimately leading to the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a term used to refer to a group of diseases that cause blockages in airflow and other breathing-related health issues.

With over 16 million Americans currently living with COPD and countless others undiagnosed and suffering, it is important for people to know their risk of developing it. The health experts at Kirby Medical Center are here to shed some light on this chronic pulmonary health condition.

Smoking & Using Tobacco Products

Smoking and using tobacco products is the leading cause of COPD, accounting for roughly 85-90% of COPD cases. Lit cigarettes contain about 7,000 different chemicals and toxins, which damage the lungs and airways when inhaled.

Not only do they inhibit your lungs’ ability to function properly, but they also leave you at an increased risk of recurrent respiratory infections.

Environmental Factors Associate With Certain Jobs

Whether you work in auto repair or you’re a maid, the air you breathe in all day at work can have a significant impact on your respiratory health. In fact, certain occupations expose you to air pollution, smoke, dust, and chemicals that can leave you at an increased risk of developing COPD.

Research has found that people who have the following jobs are at a higher risk of developing this chronic pulmonary health condition:

• Maids
• Farmworkers
• Mechanics and repairmen
• No-construction laborers
• Steelworkers
• Material-moving equipment operators

Pulmonary Rehabilitation at Kirby Medical Center

At Kirby Medical Center, we understand how difficult it can be to live with lung disease, which is why we are proud to offer Phase II and Phase III Pulmonary Rehabilitation services. Whether you’re living with asthma or Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), our pulmonary care team is here to help you breathe easier.

If you would like to learn more about pulmonary rehabilitation at Kirby Medical Center., contact Kirby Medical Center at 217-762-1830.