Few smokers develop COPD. Why?

COPD in Never Smokers

BACKGROUND Never smokers comprise a substantial proportion of patients with COPD. Their characteristics and possible risk factors in this population are not yet well defined. METHODS We analyzed data from 14 countries that participated in the international, population-based Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) study. Participants were aged ≥ 40 years and completed postbronchodilator spir...

Salmeterol in smokers with COPD.

Why do smokers diagnosed with COPD not quit smoking? - a qualitative study

BACKGROUND Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is currently one of the most widespread chronic lung diseases and a growing cause of suffering and mortality worldwide. It is predicted to become the third leading cause of death in the near future. Smoking is the most important risk factor, and about 50% of smokers develop COPD. Smoking cessation is the most important way to improve progn...

Serum Metabolite Biomarkers Discriminate Healthy Smokers from COPD Smokers

COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is defined by a fixed expiratory airflow obstruction associated with disordered airways and alveolar destruction. COPD is caused by cigarette smoking and is the third greatest cause of mortality in the US. Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) is the only validated clinical marker of COPD, but it correlates poorly with clinical features and is ...

Oxidative stress in COPD patients, smokers, and non-smokers.

BACKGROUND Oxidative stress has been known for having a key role in pathogenesis of many diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the oxidative stress and also the relationship between antioxidant system statuses and lung function in patients with COPD and smokers and non-smokers subjects. METHODS Thirty subjects with COPD, 30 smokers, and 30 healthy non-smokers participated in this...