Exploring how breathing difficulties differ between men and women with COPD

Purpose of trial

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic lung disease characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms resulting from harmful exposures (e.g. cigarette smoke, biomass fuel exposure). 

Dyspnea (breathlessness), reduced exercise capacity and low quality of life are hallmarks of COPD. In women with COPD, the burden of dyspnea is greater and associated with increased morbidity in comparison to men. Women with COPD experience increased depression and anxiety as well as reduced quality of life in comparison to their male counterparts. Significant disparities also exist in the accurate diagnosis, investigation and management of COPD in women. Increasing incidence and prevalence of COPD in women will necessitate a better understanding of the mechanisms of dyspnea in women with COPD to meet healthcare needs of British Columbians. 

The purpose of this research project is to provide mechanistic insights into sex-differences in dyspnea intensity and quality as it relates to neural respiratory drive, respiratory mechanics, pulmonary gas exchange, and quantitative CT and 129Xe MRI assessment in women across the spectrum of COPD severity in comparison to men with COPD and health through a prospective detailed physiologic case-control study (physiologic study).

Eligibility

To be eligible to participate, you must meet all the following inclusion criteria: 

• Have COPD or are healthy with no known heart or lung diseases 
• Can safely perform exercise testing or do not have any physical disabilities that would affect your ability to perform exercise 
• Are 19 years of age or older 
• Can fluently read and write in English 
• Are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 with the ability to show proof (e.g., vaccination card) 

You cannot participate if you meet the following exclusion criteria: 

• Have been told that you should not undergo strenuous exercise for any reason 
• Are pregnant or have the desire to become pregnant during the study period 
• Have a history of menopause before the age of 45 - Use supplemental oxygen 
• Have had previous lung resection surgery 
• Have an ulcer or tumour in the esophagus, or injury to the spaces in or at the back of your nose 
• Have had recent nose surgery 
• Have an allergy to latex or sensitivities to local anesthetics (numbing solutions)