Stemming from the working hypothesis that a multi-variable model rather than single variable model may be more pathognomonic of COPD-E, we demonstrate herein that a pentad comprising of body mass index (BMI), lnc-IL7R, ambient PM2.5, PM10, and SO2 concentrations were differentially associated with disease severity in Taiwanese patients with COPD-E, and are highly-specific predictors of COPD-E progression. The gene discussed is IL7R; the disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.