Risk factors for Chronic Bronchitis

Cigarette smoking is the single greatest risk factor for developing chronic bronchitis. The more you smoke and the longer you smoke, the greater your risk is of developing chronic bronchitis. Frequent and long-term smoking also increases the risk that the chronic bronchitis will be severe.

The following factors may also increase your chance of developing chronic bronchitis:

• Long-term exposure to chemicals, dust, and other substances that have been inhaled
• Long-term cigar or marijuana smoking
• Uncontrolled asthma
• Long-term exposure to air pollution