Air Pollution and Inhaled Corticosteroids in COPD

Studies have shown that people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have worse symptoms after breathing polluted air. People with COPD also often need to go to the hospital if they get a virus or other bug. One of the main drugs taken for COPD treatment (inhaled corticosteroid) may change COPD patients' lungs in ways that make it harder to deal with bugs, especially if they breathe in polluted air. If so, this could cause more frequent hospital visits. On the other hand, the same drug (inhaled corticosteroid) helps some people control symptoms, and may help them avoid hospital visits. The APEL investigators are conducting this study (APIC) to understand if this drug (inhaled corticosteroid), in combination with polluted air, will change the lungs of those with COPD in ways that make it more likely to catch bugs or have other problems.