Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic respiratory disease predominantly affecting the older population. Not well known, COPD is often confused with asthma. Tobacco smoking is widely acknowledged as the most important risk factor for COPD, but occupational exposures from irritant dust, fumes, and biomass exposures, from the burning of wood and coal in indoor fires, also contribute to COPD prevalence.

Cigarette smoking has been identified as a high risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, coronary heart disease, strokes and peripheral vascular disease. It results in the intensification of the vascular diseases of hypertension and diabetes. The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, established by the World Health Organization in 2003, with its wide ranging recommended strategies and activities, offers a comprehensive approach towards reducing the impact on health by tobacco use. Countries should mobilise governments and civil society to implement the treaty.