About Emphysema

Emphysema is a debilitating disease caused primarily by smoking. Secondary factors are indoor air pollution, particularly from biomass fuel used for cooking, outdoor pollution, and occupational dusts and chemicals. Rarely, the disease can be caused by an absence of alpha-1 antitrypsin. People with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency are genetically pre-disposed to develop emphysema, and tend to experience the effects of the disease at an earlier age than people with smoking-induced emphysema.  

Emphysema is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, currently the fourth leading cause of death worldwide. The World Health Organization predicts that by 2030, COPD will be the third leading cause of death worldwide. High rates of smoking in many countries, coupled with growing levels of airborne pollutants in some areas of the world contribute to this growth.

Emphysema: Disease Progression

Emphysema is characterized by a progressive deterioration in lung tissue which leads to over expansion (hyperinflation) of the diseased parts of the lung. A person with advanced emphysema experiences a constant feeling of breathlessness which causes him or her to gradually reduce physical activity levels to avoid becoming breathless. This leads to a progressive decline in their overall condition which can create other health problems. As the emphysema advances basic tasks such as climbing a flight of stairs, getting dressed, shopping for groceries or even eating and talking, can be challenging for someone with emphysema.