Risk Factors for Lung Disease

Risk is the probability of getting a disease. A risk factor is a characteristic, condition, or behaviour that increases the likelihood of getting a disease.Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease of the lungs which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis.90% of people who suffer from COPD are or have been heavy smokers.However, exposure to air pollution through living in a heavily polluted area or working in certain industries that expose workers to harmful chemicals, gases and dusts also increases the likelihood of COPD.Other risk factors are genetic make up and recurrent chest infections. Some people smoke and never get lung disease while other smokers die early.