Abstract:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Irreversible airflow limitation, both progressive and associated with an inflammatory response of the lungs to noxious particles or gases, is a hallmark of the disease. Cigarette smoking is the most important environmental risk factor for COPD, nevertheless, only approximately 20-30% of smokers develop symptomatic disease. Epidemiological studies, case-control studies in relatives of patients with COPD, and twin… Show more
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