Lung Microbiome and Inflammation in Early COPD

This study is examining the bacteria living in the lungs (the lung microbiome) and how they may drive inflammation in smokers with early-stage COPD — a progressive condition that makes breathing increasingly difficult — to better understand the early development of this disease. **You may be eligible if...** - You have smoked at least 20 pack-years (e.g., a pack a day for 20 years) - You have been diagnosed with early COPD (GOLD stage 1 or 2), meaning mild to moderate airflow limitation - OR you are a smoker with normal breathing test results (as a comparison group) **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have severe COPD (lung function below 50% of normal) - You have significant heart disease, diabetes, or serious liver or kidney problems - You have a severe blood clotting disorder - You are pregnant - You drink heavily (more than 6 beers or 4 mixed drinks per day) - You have taken antibiotics within the last 2 months Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.