CRP and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: PM2.5 exacerbates COPD systemic inflammation via: (1) activation of inflammatory cells and related inflammatory mediators that infiltrate into the systemic circulation through lung tissue; (2) stimulation of hepatic synthesis of CRP and fibrinogen; (3) stimulation of bone marrow function leading to increased white blood cell and platelet counts; and (4) damaged endothelial system and increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality (van Eeden and Hogg, 2002; van Eeden et al., 2005).