How does smoking contribute to emphysema? A) By interrupting the production of elastase B) By destroying cilia in the bronchi C) By reducing the alpha₁antitrypsin (a₁a) D) By creating hyperplasia of submucosal glands

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Smoking contributes to emphysema by reducing alpha₁antitrypsin, which normally protects the lungs from damage by enzymes like elastase. This leads to the destruction of alveolar walls and loss of lung elasticity.

How Does Smoking Contribute to Emphysema