Respirology : official journal of the Asian Pacific Society of Respirology
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Cardiovascular disease (CVD) contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality in COPD. There is a high prevalence of traditional risk factors in this patient group including smoking, sedentary behaviour and low socio-economic class. However, large studies have shown that airflow limitation is an independent risk factor for CVD. ⋯ In this article, we review the evidence for CVD in COPD. Next, we examine systemic factors present in COPD, and link these to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, including inflammation, oxidative stress and hypoxia. Finally, we review those studies that have investigated therapeutic interventions in COPD that may modify cardiovascular risk.