Lung Function in Preschool Children in Low and Middle Income Countries: An Under-Represented Potential Tool to Strengthen Child Health

Abstract

Background: The burden of respiratory disease is high in low-middle income countries (LMIC). Pulmonary function tests are useful as an objective measure of lung health and to track progression. Spirometry is the commonest test, but its use is limited in preschool children. Other lung function methods have been developed but their use in LMIC has not been well described.

Aim: To review the use of preschool lung function testing in children in LMIC, with particular reference to feasibility and clinical applications.

Methods: Electronic databases "PubMed", "Scopus"," Web of Science", and "EBSCO host" were searched for publications in low and middle income countries on preschool lung function testing, including spirometry, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), oscillometry, interrupter technique, tidal breathing and multiple breath washout (MBW), from 1 January 2011 to 31 January 2022. Papers in English were included and those including only children ≥6 years were excluded.

Result: A total of 61 papers from LMIC in Asia, South America, Africa, Eurasia or the Middle East were included. Of these, 40 included spirometry, 7 FeNO, 15 oscillometry, 2 interrupter technique, and 2 tidal breathing. The papers covered test feasibility (19/61), clinical application (46/61) or epidemiological studies (13/61). Lung function testing was successful in preschool children from LMIC. Spirometry was the most technically demanding and success gradually increased with age.

Conclusion: Preschool lung function testing is under-represented in LMIC for the burden of respiratory disease. These tests have the potential to strengthen respiratory care in LMIC, however access needs to be improved.

Keywords: fractional exhaled nitric oxide; interrupter technique; multiple breath washout; oscillometry; spirometry; tidal breathing.