AstraZeneca says its new drug is the first to help reduce symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, also known as COPD.

Two clinical trials showed that the monoclonal antibody known as tozorakimab reduced COPD symptoms by more than 30 percent in current and former smokers.

The clinical trial results were just presented at a medical conference and published in a research journal. The company says it is hoping for FDA approval sometime early next year.

Numbers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show an estimated 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD.

While smoking is the main cause of the condition, roughly 1 in 4 people diagnosed have never smoked. Recent studies have shown an increased risk in firefighters or those exposed to workplace dust or chemical fumes.

Those living with the disease often experience frequent coughing or wheezing and may get short of breath doing everyday activities.