Women non-smokers still around 50% more likely than men to develop COPD, research finds

Study Finds Women Non-Smokers 50% More Likely Than Men to Develop COPD

According to a recent observational study published in the journal BMJ Open Respiratory Research, women are approximately 50% more likely than men to develop Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), even if they have never smoked or smoked significantly less than men.

The research challenges the common belief that women’s increased susceptibility to cigarette smoke is the primary reason for this difference in COPD prevalence between genders.

While smoking remains the leading cause of COPD, the study reveals that despite a decline in cigarette smoking rates, the prevalence of COPD in women is nearing that of men in the United States.

Women with COPD often experience more severe symptoms at a younger age compared to men, leading researchers to investigate the potential underlying factors contributing to this trend.

Key Findings of the Study

The study analyzed data from the 2020 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), including over 12,000 women and 10,000 men aged 40 and above. The findings included:

• Women reported lower rates of cigarette, cigar, and pipe smoking compared to men, but similar rates of vaping.
• Despite smoking less and starting at a later age, women had a higher prevalence of COPD than men.
• Non-smoking women were nearly twice as likely to have COPD compared to non-smoking men.
• Female gender was associated with a 47% higher risk of being diagnosed with COPD, regardless of smoking history.

The researchers emphasized that the study’s findings suggest factors beyond smoking susceptibility may contribute to the higher prevalence of COPD in women.

Implications and Recommendations

The study underscores the need for further research into the complex interplay of gender, smoking habits, and COPD development. It also highlights the importance of tailored prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for COPD in women.