Lung function values in healthy children (10-15 years)

Abstract

The present study was designed to establish norms for pulmonary functions in urban healthy children of Delhi under the age group of 10-15 years. Pulmonary functions were assessed using an electronic lung function spirometer in 222 boys and 188 girls belonging to middle income group families of East Delhi. The pulmonary functions were separated by age and sex. All pulmonary functions showed an increase with advancing age. FEV1 and FVC were more in boys as compared to girls. Values of PEFR, FRC and TLC were similar in both sexes till the age of 13 years after which boys attained higher values. Prediction equations were obtained using height, age and weight as independent variables. Forward selection method was used to choose the best equation for each pulmonary function. Maximum variance in the lung functions was explained with the height. It is felt that norms established in the present study will act as reference standards for various lung functions in well nourished urban Delhi children under the age group of 10-15 years.