COPD or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is the term given to a group of diseases which affect the lungs. These include emphysema and chronic bronchitis. They are inflammatory diseases and will obstruct air flow to and from the lungs. There is no cure for COPD as it causes permanent lung damage. Treatment can slow down the progression of the condition. However, people with COPD are also at increased risk of developing heart disease, lung cancer and other chronic illnesses. (With thanks to our sponsor 'Curriculum Press' for providing content for this podcast)