Which statement about asthma is true?

The statement that asthma can progress to a condition similar to COPD is accurate. Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are both respiratory disorders that can share some symptoms, particularly difficulty in breathing. While asthma is often characterized by episodic wheezing and shortness of breath due to reversible airflow obstruction, persistent and poorly controlled asthma may lead to chronic inflammation and airway remodeling over time. This transformation can result in symptoms that resemble those of COPD, making asthma potentially progressive if not effectively managed.

Proper management of asthma, including avoiding triggers and following prescribed treatment plans, can help prevent this progression. The other options contain inaccuracies about the nature of asthma, such as its impact on various populations, its relationship to other respiratory illnesses like bronchitis and pneumonia, and its sensitivity to environmental factors, all of which are significant factors in asthma's pathophysiology and management. Understanding these elements is essential for effective asthma management and recognizing its potential to evolve into a more chronic condition similar to COPD.