About COPDGene Study

COPD or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States and affects the lives of over 12 million people. There are many risk factors for developing COPD with cigarette smoking being the most common. Though the development of COPD is often tied to cigarette smoking, genetic risk factors also seem to play an important role in whether or not a person will develop this disease. The goal of the COPDgene® Study is to discover what heritable or genetic factors contribute to the development of COPD in some people.
 
Currently it is known that the alpha1- antitrypsin genetic mutation can cause COPD. Many people who do not have this genetic mutation however can still develop COPD. THe COPDGene® study is looking for other genetic factors that we believe contribute to a persons risk for developing COPD. By better understanding the genetic factors surrounding COPD, we hope to improve the quality of life for COPD patients through the development of new drugs and therapies, and possibly one day a cure.
 
The COPDGene® Study has 21 clinical sites throughout the country ranging from UCLA in California to Duke University in North Carolina. The vision for the COPDGene® Study was realized by Dr. James Crapo of National Jewish Health in Denver Colorado and Dr. Edwin Silverman of Harvard University's Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston Massachusetts. Through continuing collaboration with physicians and researchers across the country, COPDGene® continues to expand and discover exciting new information on the development and progression of COPD. We are currently recruiting individuals at all 21 clinical sites to participate in our study and help us learn more about COPD.
 
Learn more about COPD
 
Participate in the COPDGene® Study

Study documents and research materials