Which disease is described as having progressive airflow limitation and is among the five major causes of death?

• A. COPD
• B. Diabetes
• C. Heart disease
• D. Cancer

Answer: (A)

Progressive airflow limitation is the defining feature of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. This group of conditions, which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, arises from long-term exposure to lung irritants such as tobacco smoke. The resulting inflammation and structural changes cause narrowing of the airways and destruction of lung tissue, leading to steadily worsening obstruction that is not fully reversible with treatment. COPD is one of the five leading causes of death worldwide, reflecting how seriously it can affect longevity and quality of life. Other listed diseases—diabetes, heart disease, and cancer—are major illnesses but do not center on a gradual, irreversible decline in airway airflow. Diagnosis often involves spirometry showing a reduced FEV1/FVC ratio after bronchodilator use, guiding appropriate management like smoking cessation, bronchodilators, inhaled therapies, vaccines, and pulmonary rehabilitation.