Which of the following is a chronic respiratory disorder in which alveolar walls are damaged due to which
respiratory surgace is decreased? One of the major causes of this disease is cigarette smoking

Options

A. Asthma
B. Emphysema
C. Silicosis
D. Pneumonia

Answer

To solve the question regarding the chronic respiratory disorder characterized by damage to alveolar walls and decreased respiratory surface area, we will analyze the options provided.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks for a chronic respiratory disorder where the alveolar walls are damaged, leading to a decrease in the respiratory surface area. It also mentions that cigarette smoking is a major cause of this disease.

2. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Asthma**: This is primarily an inflammatory condition affecting the airways (bronchi and bronchioles) and does not specifically involve damage to alveolar walls. It is characterized by wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath but is not caused by cigarette smoking.

- **Emphysema**: This is a chronic respiratory disorder where the alveolar walls are indeed damaged. This damage reduces the surface area available for gas exchange, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath. Cigarette smoking is a well-known major cause of emphysema.

- **Silicosis**: This is an occupational lung disease caused by inhalation of silica dust, leading to lung inflammation. While it affects lung function, it does not specifically relate to damage of alveolar walls in the same way as emphysema.

- **Pneumonia**: This is an infectious disease that causes inflammation of the lungs and air sacs, often leading to fluid accumulation. It is not primarily a chronic disorder nor is it caused by smoking.

3. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, emphysema is the only option that fits all the criteria mentioned in the question: it is a chronic respiratory disorder, involves damage to alveolar walls, decreases respiratory surface area, and is significantly caused by cigarette smoking.

4. **Final Answer**: The correct answer is **Emphysema**.