Which condition is typically associated with smoking?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease that is primarily associated with long-term exposure to substances that irritate and damage the lungs, with cigarette smoking being the most significant risk factor. The harmful substances in cigarette smoke lead to chronic inflammation and narrowing of the airways, destruction of lung tissue, and overall decreased lung function.

COPD includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, and the majority of cases are linked to a history of smoking. Unlike other conditions listed, such as asthma, which can be triggered by various environmental factors and is often not directly caused by smoking, or pneumonia, which is typically an infection rather than a chronic condition, COPD specifically denotes a group of diseases directly connected to chronic smoking habits.

Bronchitis can also be a result of smoking, especially in its chronic form, but it is considered a component of COPD rather than an independent diagnosis. Therefore, while smoking is linked to several respiratory issues, the most fitting condition that is distinctly characterized by long-term smoking effects is COPD.