Biomarkers of Early Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Smokers - Longitudinal Study

Biomarkers of Early Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Cardiovascular Diseases in Smokers/Ex-Smokers Attending Primary Care - Longitudinal Study

This is a longitudinal observational study to identify and validate protein biomarkers for COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases) and cardiovascular disease in smokers and ex-smokers attending primary care. Special emphasize is to correlate biomarkers to different phases of COPD, to progression of the disease, and to treatment of the disease. Furthermore, linkage between COPD, cardiovascular disease, and lung cancer will be investigated by identifying protein biomarkers.

Inclusion Criteria:

Diagnosed with COPD Gold stage 0-IV

Exclusion Criteria:

Patients with inflammatory diseases Patients with cancer Patients using immune system regulating drugs