Genetic Factors
As we mentioned earlier, the absence of a gene has been proven to predispose one to COPD. It is called alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency. People who do not have this gene and smoke are at a far greater risk of coming down with COPD. Hence, this disease has shown a mild familial tendency. This is because it seems to occur commonly in relatives of people with the disease.
Other Risk Factors
Over the years, COPD has been seen to be a common fixture among the poor in society. It is speculated that this is as a result of the conditions in which they are exposed by their economic status. Such conditions are poorly ventilated homes, homelessness that can lead to exposure to air pollutants, malnutrition, and so on.
Some other comorbidities such as low birth weight and other respiratory diseases can increase the risk of COPD. Respiratory diseases such as Asthma are among those implicated. In general, any condition that causes the overexcitability of the airways can serve as a trigger for COPD.
Some debilitating illnesses such as HIV/AIDS can predispose one to COPD probably due to lower defense mechanisms in the body.