Air pollution

Urban air pollution may affect lung function development and
consequently be a risk factor for COPD. Cross sectional studies
have shown that higher concentrations of atmospheric air
pollution are associated with increased cough, sputum
production, and breathlessness and reduced ventilatory
function. Exposure to particulate and nitrogen dioxide air
pollution has been associated with impaired ventilatory
function in adults and reduced lung growth in children. In
developing countries indoor air pollution from biomass fuel
(used for cooking and heating) has been implicated as a risk
factor for COPD, particularly in women.