COPD: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is a common progressive lung disorder characterised by airway obstruction with little or no reversibility. This irreversibility distinguishes it from asthma, in which airway obstruction is reversible. COPD is the third leading cause of death worldwide and accounted for 2.7% of all registered deaths in Hong Kong in 2017. Smokers are significantly more likely to develop COPD. Although there is no cure for COPD, it is treatable and preventable. Read more to learn about the causes, symptoms, prevention and treatment of COPD.