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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to a group of illnesses that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. In people with COPD, the airways in the lungs become partly blocked, which makes it more difficult to breathe.

COPD is a progressive disease, and is primarily caused by long-term smoking. It is the third-leading cause of death in the United States.

Symptoms of chronic COPD overlap with those of high body mass index (BMI). A study called Insight COPD at Johns Hopkins is trying to find out if a program proven to help people lose a modest amount of weight and increase their physical activity will reduce COPD symptoms in those who are overweight.

Volunteers are being sought for the study.

Weight loss help

During the study, participants will be randomly divided into two groups. One will be given assistance with weight loss resources, and the other will continue with their usual diet and exercise activity.

The weight loss program uses a series of DVD sessions focused on healthy eating and physical activity, and encourages participants to monitor their weight, diet, and physical activity for two years.

Those who choose to work with a health coach to help meet weight and activity goals will be able to do so. Researchers hope that the program will lead to weight loss, better exercise tolerance, and less shortness of breath.

To take part in the study, participants must have COPD, a high BMI (25 to 45), a history of smoking, shortness of breath, and be at least 40 years old.

During the study, patients will visit Hopkins Bayview Medical Center several times to get weighed, and to have their blood pressure taken and waist circumference measured. They will also take a six-minute walk test to measure their COPD symptoms during exercise.

For more information, or to volunteer, contact Cheryl Clare at (410) 550-2864 or Jay Turnier at (410) 550-2707.