2 » Our Research


The Boston Early-Onset COPD Study has been active since 1994. Over 200 severe, early-onset COPD patients and 1,000 family members have participated so far.

We are trying to learn if the development of severe early-onset COPD, unrelated to alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, runs in families. In order to determine this, we are:

  • Performing measurements of pulmonary function with routine testing
  • Assessing respiratory symptoms and environmental exposures with an in-depth questionnaire
  • Obtaining a blood sample, urine sample, and cheek swabs for laboratory studies

We are also interested in contacting the relatives of COPD patients that participate in this study. Any siblings, parents, children, grandparents, aunts, and uncles who are available and interested would be welcome to participate.

Our ultimate goal is to provide better treatment for people who are at risk for developing COPD.

» Your Participation