Association of Physical Activity Levels and Inflammatory Markers Following Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Association of Physical Activity Levels and Inflammatory Markers Following Pulmonary Rehabilitation
COPD is characterised by irreversible airflow limitation that is usually progressive and
 associated with an enhanced chronic inflammatory response. This inflammation can be amplified
 with flare-ups that are commonly seen in COPD patients. Pulmonary rehabilitation is one of
 the most effective methods of managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
 Pulmonary rehabilitation has been seen to induce improvements in functional capacity and
 quality.

 In healthy individuals, exercise has been shown to induce an anti-inflammatory response when
 performed regularly. However, the effects of exercise on inflammation in COPD are unclear.
 Our initial CIMPRES-COPD study has looked into the effects of short-term exercise, as part of
 pulmonary rehabilitation, on inflammation. However, this trial will examine the inflammatory
 response in COPD patients who are most active following pulmonary rehabilitation against
 those who are least active.

 This study will split participants into 2 groups according to physical activity level
 following pulmonary rehabilitation. We will recruit 40 COPD patients who provided a sample in
 the initial CIMPRES-COPD study to explore inflammatory responses in those who are most active
 and least active. By better understanding the mechanisms of how long-term physical activity
 levels affects inflammation in COPD, we could design better interventions to increase
 physical activity levels following pulmonary rehabilitation.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Patients diagnosed with any severity of COPD (according to British Thoracic Society
 criteria, i.e. >10 pack year smoking history and post bronchodilator spirometry
 FEV1/FVC ratio <0.70 and FEV<80%)

 -  Previously enrolled on pulmonary rehabilitation providing at least one sample for the
 CIMPRES-COPD trial.

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  Any unstable ongoing cardiovascular events.

 -  Other active inflammatory conditions (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, cancer).

 -  Known asthma, allergic rhinitis or other respiratory disease (bronchiectasis,
 pulmonary fibrosis).