The Role of Smoking in the Mechanisms of Development of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Atherosclerosis Will chronic e cigarette use cause lung disease? Thoracic and Sleep Group Queensland 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 National Emphysema Foundation E cigarettes and Vaping Just As Bad On Lung Health As Cigarettes