Topic collection: Global and Regional Comparisons of COPD in Vulnerable Populations: The Role of Environmental Factors | Thorax
In 2021, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) caused about 3.5 million deaths globally, ranking as the fourth leading cause of death. Exposure to multiple environmental factors can lead to chronic inflammation and progressive lung damage, increasing the risk of COPD. Exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution, environmental chemicals, occupational hazards, climate change and lifestyle and behavioural factors such as tobacco smoke might influence COPD risk, especially in vulnerable populations
