Risk factors for chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive lung disease.

Among the risk factors for chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive lung disease, only smoking and alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency effects have been well demonstrated. Other factors, as air pollution, occupational exposure and childhood lung diseases may have an influence, but on a lower scale. The prevention of chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive lung disease remains mainly based on antismoking programs.