The Facts
Emphysema is a chronic lung condition in which the lung's natural airspaces,
called alveoli, become larger yet decrease in number. The tissue
surrounding the alveoli loses elasticity, so that the airspaces can no longer
expand and shrink as usual. This reduces the amount of oxygen transferred by
the lungs to the bloodstream, making it more difficult for you to breathe.
Emphysema usually results from exposure to toxins like cigarettes and so usually
affects older adults. Men are over 50% more likely to suffer from emphysema
than women. However, it's on the increase in women because they now form a larger
proportion of the smoking population.