COPD Awareness
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. It is one of the leading causes of death worldwide and a major cause of chronic morbidity. November is COPD Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness about this preventable and treatable disease.
What Is COPD?
COPD is an umbrella term used to describe progressive lung diseases including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and refractory (non-reversible) asthma. The disease is characterised by increasing breathlessness, chronic cough, frequent respiratory infections, and reduced exercise tolerance. COPD is the third leading cause of death worldwide, responsible for 3.23 million deaths in 2019.
Risk Factors
Tobacco smoking — the most significant risk factor; responsible for approximately 85–90% of COPD cases
Indoor air pollution — biomass fuel burning for cooking and heating, particularly in low-income countries
Outdoor air pollution — a significant contributing factor in urban India
Occupational exposure — dust, chemicals, and fumes in the workplace
Genetic factors — alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency is the most well-known genetic risk factor for COPD; variants in SERPINA1, HHIP, FAM13A, and other genes are also associated with COPD risk
The Genetic Angle
Not everyone who smokes develops COPD — and some non-smokers do. Genetic factors play a significant role in determining individual susceptibility to COPD. Understanding your genetic risk profile allows you to take targeted preventive action, including smoking cessation, air quality management, and early medical surveillance.
Know Your Genetic Risk for Respiratory Conditions
Genomepatri by MapmyGenome covers COPD risk, asthma predisposition, and 100+ other health conditions — with certified genetic counselling to help you understand your results and take proactive steps for your lung health.
