They observed that those who presented persistent systemic inflammation were at a higher risk of all-cause mortality and more frequent acute exacerbations when compared with non-inflamed participants [12]. In participants of the Copenhagen City Heart Study, a serum CRP level > 3 mg/L was associated with an increased risk of hospitalization and death due to COPD [37]. The gene discussed is CRP; the disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.