This study aims to understand the role of oestrogen in patients with asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD). Therefore, what is the effect of oestrogen in these participants compared to controls (those without disease). The study hypothesises that oestrogen loss in patients with asthma and COPD causes accelerated lung function decline and changes to lung structure. It will investigate if this is mediated by inflammation, immune host response or elastin and collagen changes. It is an observational prospective cohort study aiming to recruit healthy controls, and people with asthma or COPD), and/or the menopause.
Men and women aged > 18 years.
For female participants: pre-menopausal, peri-menopausal and post-menopausal women can all be included.
Participants willing and able to give informed consent for participation in the study.
Healthy controls <10 pack year history (participants without Asthma or COPD).
Known or suspected current pulmonary tuberculosis, HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), Hepatitis B Virus, Hepatitis C Virus.
Alcohol or recreational drug abuse, is defined as when the use is harmful as per NHS definition.
History of psychiatric, medical, or surgical disorders.
Pregnant