There was a negative correlation between expression of CD11b on sputum neutrophils and FEV1/FVC in smokers without COPD (Rho=−0.85, p=0.02) and a correlation between expression of CD11b on sputum neutrophils and FEV1 (% predicted) in the COPD group (Figure 2). This evidence concerns the gene ITGAM and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.