Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) accounts for approximately 55 % of cases of respiratory diseases and is now the third cause of both death and morbidity worldwide [1]. Its prevalence is expected to further increase over the coming years [1]. The etiology of COPD is multifactorial, involving a complex interplay between the exposure to inhaled particulate matter (e.g., cigarette smoke, air pollutants, etc.) and genetic, developmental and social factors (Table 1). The main features of the disease encompass chronic, progressive respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, dyspnea) alongside persistent airflow obstruction that can be quantified by spirometry [1].
