COPDGene with its large population and focus on CT phenotypes proposes to define subsets of COPD that may reflect effects of specific genetic variants. Careful CT phenotyping may generate diagnostic imaging biomarkers and permit early disease identification in high risk groups. This early diagnosis of asymptomatic disease will provide new opportunities to develop prevention strategies and treatment to limit disease progression. Available treatments will also spur new efforts to encourage screening for early disease in smokers with continued emphasis on smoking cessation. The genetic associations expected from performing GWAS in this large cohort may reveal novel directions for defining disease mechanisms while advancing knowledge about basic mechanisms and also providing opportunities for treatment and prevention.
