QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Asthma, especially uncontrolled, can lead to chronic inflammation within the lungs. This leads to an increased risk of COPD.
10005842
b
Asthma
QuestionChoice
This can cause chronic inflammation and irritation within the lungs. Therefore is a risk factor but not as significant as tobacco smoking.
10005845
e
Occupational exposure to dust and chemicals
QuestionChoice
90% of cases of COPD are associated with smoking. However, only 10% of smokers develop the condition indicating that there may be a genetic role in the development.

It would be important to ask this patient about his smoking history calculated in pack years.

Pack years = number of cigarettes a day divided by 20 x number of years smoked.
10005841
a
Smoking
QuestionChoice
Not a risk factor. However, smokers that are older will have a larger pack-year history and therefore will be more at risk.
10005844
d
Age
QuestionChoice
Alpha-1 antitrypsin is a protease inhibitor - this acts in the lungs to oppose elastase. Therefore, deficiency results in more breakdown of elastin which is crucial in the structure of alveoli.

1-2% of those with COPD have an underlying deficiency in alpha-1 antitrypsin.

It is a risk factor and should be suspected in patients that are young and non-smokers.
10005843
c
Alpha- 1 antitrypsin deficiency
Concept
Chapter
2693
3800
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Topic
162
General practice
13715
60 year old male presents to the GP with a chronic cough and breathlessness.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) diagnosis is made.

What is the greatest risk factor for this condition?
a