Final answer:
Tobacco smoking is the primary cause of COPD, followed by air pollution and genetic factors. Smoking cessation can slow disease progression, while treatments are available to alleviate symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common offending agents for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are tobacco smoking, air pollution, and genetics. Tobacco smoking is responsible for the majority of COPD cases, leading to the breakdown of alveolar walls and reducing the surface area for gas exchange. Prolonged exposure to secondhand smoke, particulate matter, and ground-level ozone also increases the risk of COPD development. While there is no cure for COPD, smoking cessation can slow the progression of the disease.
Treatments like supplemental oxygen and inhaled bronchodilators can alleviate symptoms, and in extreme cases, lung transplantation may be considered. Preventing COPD is achievable primarily through the avoidance of tobacco smoke and reducing exposure to harmful air pollutants.