Is COPD a contagious disease, can it be contracted by being around a person who has it?

Is COPD a contagious disease, can it be contracted by being around a person who has it?
No COPD is not contagious, But if your parents are carriers of an Disease called ALPHA-1 ANTI-TRYPSIN DISEASE, then you can get this disease. Both of my parents were carriers and I out of 3 children was the lucky one to get Alpha-1 Anti-trypsin Disease. I have to have weekly infusions to help me stay alive. As long the infusions work I am in good shape. But with out this treatment my lungs will fail and be put on the lung transplant lists. And when I found out about this disease that only 100 was in Indiana and that was in November 2008. If your parent or relatives have COPD you should be checked for this A1AT!!!

Brian
A1AT ZZ since November 2008

COPD: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. It is a progressive inflamatory disease most commonly caused by cigarette smoking. Genetic factors (that is to say: you can be genetically pre-disposed to have a sensitive pulmonary system) also can influence it's development and or progression.

It is neither bacterial or viral; it is not something you can catch. It is simply progressively severe lung damage caused by external factors that may or may not be in the sufferers control (for example: severe pollution vs smoking). Asthma sufferers commonly develop COPD symptoms.

Absolutely not. I took care of my mom for years who had COPD.

No there is no way you catch it by being around someone with it..no worries..