Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part C (2025)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a major public health problem associated with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is defined as a progressive disorder characterized by irreversible airflow limitation, most often resulting from emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Smoking is the predominant risk factor, although genetic predisposition, occupational hazards, biomass fuel exposure, and environmental pollution also contribute significantly. By 2030, COPD is expected to become the third leading cause of death globally. The disease is driven by chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, protease–antiprotease imbalance, and mucus hypersecretion, which together result in structural lung damage and systemic complications. Diagnostic confirmation relies mainly on spirometry, with FEV1/FVC ratio <0.7 post-bronchodilator, complemented by imaging and emerging biomarkers such as eosinophil counts. Management focuses on symptom relief, preventing exacerbations, and improving quality of life. Core interventions include smoking cessation, vaccination, pulmonary rehabilitation, and oxygen therapy, supported by pharmacological agents like bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, PDE-4 inhibitors, and triple therapy. Recent advances emphasize individualized medicine, novel biologics, regenerative approaches, and digital health technologies. Prevention remains the most effective strategy, while research into early detection and innovative therapeutics continues to hold promise for better patient outcomes.