E cigarette use tied to increased COPD, asthma risk MDedge Smoking Cessation for COPD: Benefits & Tips E cigarette use increases risk for developing major respiratory diseases COPD is a progressive, largely irreversible airflow limitation characterized by chronic cough, sputum production, and dyspneamost commonly due to smoking. Spirometry (FEV FVC < 0.7) confirms diagnosis; smoking cessation is the most effective