Identifying risk factors for worsening symptoms in COPD using CT scans

Risk Stratification for COPD Exacerbations with CT Analysis and Multidimensional Trajectory Subtyping

NIH-funded research Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11052471

This study is looking to help people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by figuring out which patients might have more serious flare-ups of their symptoms, using special imaging and health information to create tailored treatment plans that could improve their care.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11052471 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to better understand chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by identifying which patients are at higher risk for severe symptom flare-ups, known as exacerbations. Using advanced CT imaging techniques, the study will analyze various biomarkers related to lung and heart health, as well as patient history, to categorize individuals into distinct risk groups. By employing a sophisticated algorithm that tracks changes over time, the research seeks to pinpoint early indicators of worsening health in COPD patients. This approach could lead to more personalized treatment plans and improved management of the disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who are experiencing varying degrees of symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients with mild or no symptoms of COPD may not benefit from this research as they are less likely to experience exacerbations.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier identification of patients at risk for severe COPD exacerbations, allowing for timely interventions and better management of their condition.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using imaging techniques and biomarker analysis to improve understanding of COPD, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.