Clinical and Radiologic Disease in Smokers With Normal Spirometry

Abstract

Cigarette smoking continues to be a common addiction in the United States despite efforts to reduce its prevalence. Approximately 49% of adult Americans 45 years or older are current or former smokers, and approximately 19% of the adult population currently smoke.^1,2 Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a consequence of smoking, is the third leading cause of death in the United States and a major cause of chronic disability.³ Although COPD is traditionally defined by airflow obstruction on spirometry, smoking-associated effects on the lungs related to COPD also include emphysema, gas trapping, and chronic bronchitis.^4,5 Current thinking that only a minority of smokers will ever develop COPD^6,7 may underestimate the potential for disease and impairment.