Analyses included univariate tests and linear regression models adjusted for relevant risk factors.<h4>Results</h4>Here we show that among 268 infants with a median gestational age of 27.6 (25.7-29.4) weeks, those with recurrent C-reactive protein elevations had higher rates of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (56.3% versus 29.4%, p < 0.027) and a greater proportion of children with forced expiratory volume in one second below the fifth percentile (71.9% versus 61.8%, p < 0.001), and reduced running endurance. The gene discussed is CRP; the disease is bronchopulmonary dysplasia.