What is COPD?

COPD: What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is one of the most common lung diseases worldwide.

COPD refers to a group of lung diseases that makes it progressively harder over time to breath. Damage to the airways will eventually interfere with the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs.

Two forms of COPD:

• Chronic Bronchitis involves a long-term cough with mucus
• Pulmonary Emphysema involves destruction of the lungs over time

For more information on COPD, visit the following:

• What is COPD?
• UCLA Health Library