Cardiovascular Risk and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

This study is investigating the risk of heart and blood vessel problems (cardiovascular disease) in patients with COPD (a chronic lung condition), looking at both stable COPD and those admitted to the hospital with a flare-up (acute worsening) of their condition. **You may be eligible if...** - You are a man or woman aged 18 to 85 - You have been diagnosed with COPD (either by lung function testing showing FEV1/FVC below 70%, or a confirmed COPD diagnosis) - If you are being admitted with a COPD flare-up: you have high carbon dioxide levels, low blood pH, and rapid breathing at the time of admission, and your blood gases have stabilized enough for safe participation - You have given your written informed consent **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You are outside the age range of 18 to 85 - You do not have a confirmed COPD diagnosis - Your COPD flare-up is too severe or unstable for safe participation Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.