ABSTRACT. The association between the TNF-α +489 G/A polymorphism and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remains controversial because of small group size and varied design among different studies. In the present study, a meta-analysis was conducted to assess the association between the +489 G/A polymorphism and COPD risk. A comprehensive search was conducted to identify articles that have reported an association between the TNF-α +489 G/A polymorphism and COPD risk. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated under both dominant (AA+GA vs GG genotypes) and allele (A vs G) models. Heterogeneity was assessed, as well as publication bias. Nine articles with ten eligible studies were included in this analysis. Significant association between the +489 G/A polymorphism and COPD was identified in Asians under the allele model (OR = 1.582, 95%CI = 1.035-2.419). However, no significant difference was found in the Caucasian groups. Strong evidence for between-study heterogeneity was identified under both models, and no publication bias was detected. Our results indicated a potential role of the A allele of the TNF-α +489 G/A polymorphism 5211 TNF-α +489 G/A polymorphism increases COPD risk ©FUNPEC-RP www.funpecrp.com.br Genetics and Molecular Research 14 (2): 5210-5220 (2015) in increasing COPD risk in Asians, but not in Caucasians. Additional studies will be necessary to verify this conclusion.