Specific effective airway resistance is pathological if it is ≥1·2 kPa per s, which is further classified as mild (1·2–2·0 kPa per s), moderate (2·1–4·0 kPa per s), or severe (>4·0 kPa per s). It is higher in current or former smokers than in non-smokers, irrespective of the presence or absence of spirometrically determined airflow limitation.
COPD=chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.