Identifying hidden areas of lung damage in COPD patients

Silent Zones of Lung Disease in COPD

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM · NIH-11001142

This study is looking at how special lung scans can help us find hidden problem areas in the lungs of people with COPD, especially smokers, to see how these areas affect breathing and overall health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11001142 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by examining the relationship between traditional lung imaging and lung function. It uses advanced imaging techniques to identify 'Silent Zones' in the lungs that may not show up on standard scans but could indicate compromised lung mechanics. By analyzing CT scans from a large cohort of smokers, the study aims to correlate these hidden areas with patients' respiratory health and quality of life. The findings could lead to better understanding and management of COPD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are current and former smokers who have been diagnosed with COPD.

Not a fit: Patients with COPD who do not have any history of smoking may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment strategies for COPD patients, enhancing their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to assess lung health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.