Risk Factors Tobacco use is the number one risk factor. Heavy smokers are at greater risk than light smokers, and cigarette smokers are at greater risk than cigar and pipe smokers.
All smokers are at greater risk than lifelong nonsmokers.
When there is a deficiency of AAT, the activity of elastase an enzyme that breaks down elastin is not inhibited and elastin degradation occurs unchecked. Individuals with a severe genetic deficiency of AAT usually have symptoms by the time they reach early middle age. It is critical that people with this deficiency never smoke. Back to Top Incidence and Prevalence The American Lung Association and the World Health Organization track respiratory disease and mortality rates related to tobacco use. United States - Approximately 16.4 million people suffer from this disease.