The principal toxic agents implicated in COPD are cigarette smoke, occupational dust, chemicals, and environmental pollutants. Cigarette smoke contains thousands of harmful compounds, including tar, nicotine, and carbon monoxide, which cause inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs. Occupational exposure to substances like silica, asbestos, and organic dust can also contribute to COPD. Environmental pollutants, such as nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter, further exacerbate the condition.
