Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

~3.5 million deaths per year. The slow suffocation of damaged lungs. 90% of COPD deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries. Smoking is the #1 cause, but air pollution and occupational dust exposure account for a growing share. There is no cure — only management. Most people don't know they have it until 50% of lung function is lost. Source: WHO.