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Smoking is the common cause of COPD. Over 80% of patients diagnosed with COPD is due to smoking. It is also the cause of 90% of COPD-related deaths. Second-hand smoke can also cause COPD.

The other 20% of COPD patients have COPD due to other factors. The environment affects lung health. Poor air quality, exposure to chemicals, construction dust, and fumes over a long period of time can damage the lung airways.

Allergies and asthma can worsen the lung airways and cause changes in the lungs that can lead to developing COPD.

COPD can also be genetic. As many as 3% of people diagnosed with COPD may have Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency. Alpha-1 can be passed down from parents and the cause is unknown. It can cause both lung and liver disease. If you have COPD, ask your doctor if you should get tested for Alpha-1.