Risk of COPD in Kids
COPD is considered a smoker's disease. It develops over many years of consistent exposure to cigarette smoke or other chemicals and pollutants. The damage to the lungs from COPD is not reversible and there is no cure, only treatments to ease symptoms. Previously, COPD was diagnosed more frequently in those over the age of 50, but is now being seen in people as young as in their 20s, and less frequently even in kids.
What can cause children to get COPD? Since COPD is generally a progressive disease that takes many years to develop, it is rarely seen in kids. But there is a certain gene that is related to cases of COPD in younger people, including children.
It is so rare for children to develop COPD even due to genetics that many medical sources still claim that children do not get COPD. But it is not unheard of and there have been studies on sleep issues for kids with COPD. Even those with the genetic predisposition will generally not be diagnosed until their 20s or 30s.
Even though it is rare for children to have COPD during their childhood, there are factors that increase a child's risk of developing COPD in adulthood. These include severe or persistent childhood asthma, premature birth requiring the use of oxygen, constant exposure to smoke, dust or other pollutants and frequent long infections during childhood.
Long-term studies established the link between severe or persistent childhood asthma and COPD. At the time of the study, treatments for asthma were not as advanced as they are now. With today's treatments, kids with asthma may have less risk of developing COPD later in life.
If your child has asthma or other breathing issues, it is important to work with your child's pediatrician to not only treat lung problems but to prevent future issues such as the risk COPD in your kids.
SOURCES:
WebMD COPD Help Center; COPD Overview
C Gaultier, et al.; Respiration during sleep in children with COPD; Chest Journal
Katarina Wozmicki; Childhood Asthma Linked to Risk of COPD; WebMD
Published by Jolynne M Hudnell
Jolynne is a part-time freelance writer and independently-published poet. Jolynne has knowledge and experience in a variety of topics. Jolynne enjoys singing and writing poetry. Her published work in... View profile
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7 Comments
Post a CommentSurprising information. Thanks so much!
I had never thought about a child developing COPD! Very interesting article Jolynne.
both stories are great
Great report on a scary topic.
How sad for a child to have this dreaded condition. It is tough enough for adults! Great job on this one, Jolynne!
Very informative. I had no idea that COPD was reported to be associated with smoking. Excellent research, my friend. Keep us informed.
I can't imagine how miserable it would be for a child to live with COPD. Good awareness article, Jolynne. :)