The finding may help explain why smokers are more likely to develop emphysema, a potentially fatal lung disease.

In smokers who develop emphysema, symptoms usually begin between age 45 and 60.

In 2008, he told the press Amy had developed early-stage emphysema.

She required continuous inotropic support and was now developing interstitial emphysema.

During the 1990s, Martin developed emphysema from years of cigarette smoking.

She retired as a captain in 1959 when she developed emphysema.

Adults with severe deficiency will develop emphysema, often before age 40.

However, population studies show that smokers are about six times more likely to develop emphysema than nonsmokers.

He developed emphysema, yet couldn't give up cigarettes, and by the age of 53 had smoked his last little bit of lung away.

Develop emphysema at 45 years of age or younger.