Which disease is often caused by smoking?

Emphysema is a progressive lung disease that primarily involves the destruction of the alveoli, which are the tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs. Smoking is the leading cause of emphysema, as the harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke damage lung tissue and contribute to inflammation. Over time, this inflammation leads to the loss of elasticity in the lungs and the destruction of alveolar walls, making it difficult for individuals to breathe and leading to a reduced ability to expel air from the lungs.

In contrast, pleurisy refers to inflammation of the pleura, the membranes surrounding the lungs, and is often associated with infections or other medical conditions rather than smoking. Pulmonary edema is a condition caused by excess fluid in the lungs, often resulting from heart issues rather than smoking. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder affecting the lungs and other organs, and while smoking can worsen symptoms, it is not a direct cause of the disease.