Methodology of an Observational Cohort Study for Subjects with ChronicObstructive Pulmonary Disease in Dusty Areas Near Cement Plants

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) occurs in genetically susceptible individuals by chronic exposure to environmental factors. Although cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for this disease, environmental factors including vapor, gas, dust, and fumes can also impact lung function. Emissions from cement plants are known to have negative health effects; however, the effects of cement dust on COPD subjects living near cement plants have not been fully investigated. We plan to conduct a study to observe clinical outcomes of COPD areas near the cement plants in Korea. Here, we present methodology for an observational cohort study. Cement plants are mostly located in the Kangwon and Chungbuk provinces in Korea. COPD subjects in these areas are recruited for medical examinations consisting of a questionnaire of environmental exposure and health habits, symptom severity, pulmonary function testing, and computed tomography. Blood and urine samples are obtained and subjects will be followed up over 10 years. The patient cohort of this study differs from other COPD study populations in that the participants have been living in dusty areas near cement plants; we therefore termed this cohort COPD in dusty area.