What genetic factor can lead a non-smoker to develop emphysema?

What genetic factor can lead a non-smoker to develop emphysema?

• A. Chronic bronchitis
• B. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
• C. Small airway disease
• D. Obstructive sleep apnea

Answer: (B)

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is a genetic condition that significantly impacts lung health, particularly leading to emphysema in non-smokers. This deficiency involves a lack of a protein called alpha-1 antitrypsin, which is produced by the liver and plays a crucial role in protecting the lungs from damage caused by enzymes released by white blood cells, especially during inflammation. When this protective protein is deficient or absent, the lungs can be more susceptible to damage and destruction of lung tissue, thus predisposing individuals to emphysema. In individuals with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, the risk of developing emphysema is not tied to smoking habits, making it a notable factor for non-smokers. The genetic nature of this deficiency means that the individual inherits the condition, which can lead to accelerated lung tissue damage over time, ultimately resulting in emphysema even in the absence of traditional risk factors such as smoking. Other conditions mentioned do not primarily relate to genetic factors leading to emphysema. Chronic bronchitis is often part of the broader spectrum of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) but doesn't directly stem from a hereditary factor. Small airway disease refers to the narrowing and inflammation of small airways

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is a genetic condition that significantly impacts lung health, particularly leading to emphysema in non-smokers. This deficiency involves a lack of a protein called alpha-1 antitrypsin, which is produced by the liver and plays a crucial role in protecting the lungs from damage caused by enzymes released by white blood cells, especially during inflammation. When this protective protein is deficient or absent, the lungs can be more susceptible to damage and destruction of lung tissue, thus predisposing individuals to emphysema.

In individuals with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, the risk of developing emphysema is not tied to smoking habits, making it a notable factor for non-smokers. The genetic nature of this deficiency means that the individual inherits the condition, which can lead to accelerated lung tissue damage over time, ultimately resulting in emphysema even in the absence of traditional risk factors such as smoking.

Other conditions mentioned do not primarily relate to genetic factors leading to emphysema. Chronic bronchitis is often part of the broader spectrum of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) but doesn't directly stem from a hereditary factor. Small airway disease refers to the narrowing and inflammation of small airways