Each study subject has pre- and post-bronchodilator spirometry performed using a standardized protocol and spirometer (ndd EasyOne Spirometer, Zurich, Switzerland). Information collected from each subject includes a modified American Thoracic Society (ATS) Respiratory Epidemiology Questionnaire, demographic information, medications, medical history, and St George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) (see full data collection forms on COPDGene web site at www.COPDGene.org). Height, weight, blood pressure and oxygen saturation (on room air) are also assessed. A standardized six minute walk test is performed on each subject. Inspiratory and expiratory CT scans are done. A blood sample for DNA is obtained from each subject; serum and plasma are stored for future biomarker studies at the COPDGene Biorepository at John Hopkins University.
