Finally, in a post hoc analysis assessing unadjusted strata of COPD categories in combination with low versus normal HB levels, CRP-levels were found to be highest among those with severe and very severe COPD and low HB with an average of 14 mg/l compared to 7.2 mg/l in persons with only severe and very severe COPD and 4.4 mg/l in persons with only low HB. The gene discussed is CRP; the disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.