The Benefits of Smoking Cessation on Patients with COPD – A Narrative Review

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major healthcare problem and an important cause of mortality worldwide, causing 3,23 million deaths in 2019, 90% of COPD deaths in those under the age of 70 in low and middle-income countries according to WHO (World Health Organization). COPD is the third leading cause of death globally, with 24% of patients dying within five years of diagnosis . Smoking is the most common risk factor for COPD, as tobacco ^[1] smoke contains a large number of toxic substances that are both the cause of COPD and the main factor implicated in the progression of the disease . ^[2]

This narrative review aims to provide scientific help to healthcare professionals to understand the importance of focusing on smoking cessation amongst patients with COPD as the main treatment method, besides pharmacological therapy. The global burden of COPD mortality must be addressed through efforts to reduce exposure to risk factors, assess individual patient risk, and use treatments that lower mortality. In countries that have adopted comprehensive strategies for prevention and treatment, COPD-related mortality rates have declined. The latest research points out the importance of smoking cessation in the prognosis and quality of life among COPD patients.