Cristine Berry, M.D.

Research Project:
Does Early-Life Exposure to Secondhand Smoke Increase COPD Risk?

Grant Awarded:

Biomedical Research Grant

Research Topic:

tobacco

Research Disease:

COPD

While smoking is a major cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, not all smokers develop COPD. The reason for this remains poorly understood. Evidence suggests that early-life environmental tobacco smoke exposure influences harmful responses to adult smoking, thereby increasing COPD risk. To evaluate this, we will measure markers of the lung response to smoking in participants who are followed up to age 32, comparing smokers with or without early life ETS exposure. We will also compare the results of breathing tests to measure lung changes suggestive of early COPD. We hope that this work will identify innovative targets for COPD prevention and treatment.

Page last updated: June 7, 2024

Join the Patient & Caregiver Network

How to Help People Quit

10 Tips to Protect Yourself from Unhealthy Air

State of the Air Key Findings

Become an Advocate

Join a LUNG FORCE Walk

Double Your Gift

Cristine Berry, M.D.

A Breath of Fresh Air in Your Inbox

Thank You!

Make a Donation

Become a Lung Health Insider

Select Your Location

Change Language

Lung HelpLine

1-800-LUNG-USA