What is the most significant risk factor for emphysema?

The most significant risk factor for emphysema is smoking. This condition is primarily caused by long-term exposure to tobacco smoke, which damages the alveoli in the lungs and leads to decreased elasticity and impaired gas exchange. Smoking not only introduces harmful chemicals into the lungs, leading to inflammation and destruction of lung tissue, but it also significantly increases the likelihood of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), of which emphysema is a major component.

While other factors such as genetic history, obstructive sleep apnea, and high cholesterol may play a role in overall lung health or can contribute to respiratory issues, smoking is clearly the leading and most directly associated risk for the development of emphysema. Therefore, preventing or quitting smoking is the most-effective strategy for reducing the risk of this debilitating lung condition.