COPD Prevention
There is no routine screening for COPD. However, many people do not know they have COPD until they have serious . If you have risk factors for COPD, talk to your healthcare provider.
Prevent COPD before it starts
The best way to prevent COPD is to quit smoking or, if you don’t smoke, not to start. Also try to avoid lung irritants that can contribute to COPD, such as air pollution, chemical fumes, dust, and secondhand smoke.
Smoking is the leading cause of COPD. If you smoke, talk with your provider about programs and products that can help you quit.
Quit smoking
Quitting smoking is the most important step you can take to help slow the progression of COPD. It can help you live longer, too. Talk with your provider about how best to quit. Some people use e-cigarettes or vape to try to quit smoking tobacco, but this is not a good idea for smokers who have COPD.
If you have trouble quitting smoking on your own, consider joining a support group. Many hospitals, workplaces, and community groups offer classes to help people quit smoking. Ask your family members and friends to support you in your efforts to quit.
For more information about how to quit smoking, visit the Smoking and Your Heart page and Your Guide to a Healthy Heart. Although these resources focus on heart health, they include basic information about how to quit smoking. For free help and support to quit smoking, call the National Cancer Institute’s Smoking Quitline at 1-877-44U-QUIT (1-877-448-7848).
COPD and Smoking: My Plan to Quit
Learn how quitting can help you feel better and how to work with your provider.