New Study Reveals The Shocking Reason Why Women Over 40 Are Getting COPD (Image Credits: iStock)
Contrary to the long-held belief that lung disease primarily affects older male smokers, a new study has revealed a surprising and concerning trend: women over 40, even those who have never smoked, are significantly more at risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The findings, published in BMJ Open Respiratory Research, highlight the urgent need to shift how we think about lung health — especially when it comes to women.
COPD, a progressive lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe, has often been associated with decades of smoking. But this study, titled Gender, Tobacco and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Analysis of the 2020 National Health Interview Survey, analysed health data from over 23,000 U.S. adults aged 40 and above and found that gender plays a far bigger role than previously recognised.
Women at Greater Risk — Even Without Smoking
The study showed that women had nearly a 50% higher risk of developing COPD than men in the same age group. Most notably, among non-smokers, 3.2% of women had COPD compared to just 1.7% of men — a striking disparity that raises serious concerns.
Even among smokers, women were found to be more vulnerable to the disease. While the research did not find biological proof that women’s lungs are more sensitive to tobacco specifically, it suggests that other environmental and occupational exposures could be silently damaging women’s lungs over time.
What’s Causing COPD in Non-Smoking Women?
Researchers propose several potential explanations for why women — especially those who have never smoked — are still facing high rates of COPD:
Indoor air pollution from cooking fumes, cleaning sprays, scented candles, and even beauty products
These silent threats can easily go unnoticed, leading to a delayed diagnosis. By the time symptoms appear or worsen, the condition might already be advanced.
Common Signs of COPD You Shouldn’t Ignore
COPD symptoms can creep up slowly, and many people may dismiss them as signs of ageing or a sedentary lifestyle. However, being alert to these signs is critical, especially for women over 40. Symptoms include:
Wheezing or breathlessness
Fatigue during daily activities
Frequent chest infections
If any of these signs occur — even without a history of smoking — it's essential to consult a doctor. A simple lung function test could be life-changing, helping to catch the disease early and manage it effectively.
Women Often Diagnosed Late — Here’s Why That’s a Problem
The study also highlights a broader systemic issue: many healthcare providers still don’t consider COPD as a likely diagnosis in women, especially non-smokers. This leads to missed or delayed diagnoses, making the disease harder to manage later. By the time it’s detected, lung damage may already be severe.
Early detection is key. With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, COPD progression can be slowed, and quality of life preserved.
How Women Over 40 Can Protect Their Lungs
The good news? There are several simple steps women can take to reduce their risk of lung damage and catch symptoms early:
Ventilate indoor spaces when cooking or cleaning; use exhaust fans or open windows
This study shows that you don’t need to smoke to be at risk for lung disease. For women over 40, lung health deserves closer attention — and timely action.
