Emphysema and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are related lung conditions that are caused by many years of cigarette smoking (‘smoker’s lung’). An estimated 3.1 million Americans have been diagnosed with emphysema; 11.2 million U.S. adults were estimated to have COPD. The disease is estimated to kill more than 120,000 Americans each year. Smoking is the major cause, but with ever increasing air pollution and other environmental factors that negatively affect pulmonary patients, those numbers are on the rise. There is no denying it, we must continue our work to reduce the suffering and the toll emphysema is taking.

The National Emphysema Foundation was founded in 1971; its mission is to improve the quality of life of patients with emphysema, chronic obstructive lung disease, asthma or related lung diseases with information and education for families. The National Emphysema Foundation supports research and works with many advisors who are involved in direct patient care.

The information presented here is from experienced professionals, they have written their expert opinions specifically for the website. Information is also presented from published literature. It is not a therapeutic recommendation or prescription. For specific information and advice, consult your own physician or other healthcare provider.