The best prevention for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is to abstain from smoking cigarettes, cigars and pipes, because tobacco smoke has been strongly linked to this disease. Patients are encouraged to ask their physician about the many strategies that are available to help them quit smoking. Avoiding other irritants in the air is also important.

Patients who have both asthma and COPD should also try to avoid smoke and other potential irritants and allergens as much as possible. The lung damage caused by COPD can make it easier for a person with asthma to experience an asthma attack.

Research suggests that caring for all lung-related infections is necessary for patients with COPD, particularly if they are recurrent. For example, if a patient is told to take an antibiotic for ten full days, the patient should complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms subside after only five days. Exercise to maintain full lung capacity, and a healthy diet to maintain normal weight, are also recommended. Finally, some studies suggest that vitamin C can aid in the prevention of COPD.

There is also a screening test that can detect the gene responsible for A1AD emphysema. Couples with a history of this disease on either or both sides of the family may wish to take this test before having children, or to have their children screened. If detected early, regular injections of the protective protein (replacement therapy) can be pursued.