Does stopping smoking make a difference to COPD?

Dr Sarah Jarvis MBE

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an umbrella term for people with chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both. With COPD the airflow to the lungs is restricted (obstructed). COPD is usually caused by smoking. Symptoms include cough and breathlessness. The most important treatment is to stop smoking.

For more information, go to /health/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-leaflet