Correlation of peak expiratory flow rate with age and anthropometric parameters in elderly (>65 years)

Abstract

Background: Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) is of value in the identification of chronic bronchitis and for the assessment and follow-up of asthma. For these purposes, evaluation of an observed reading of PEFR required knowledge for its range in normal subjects. Aims and Objective: To determine the normal PEFR values in elderly men to establish local reference standards. Materials and Methods: The PEFR was measured in 96 healthy men aged ≥65 years of rural areas of Patiala district using the Mini-Wright peak flow meter in standing position. Best out of the three trials was recorded. Its correlation with age, anthropometric variables, body mass index (BMI), and body surface area (BSA) were calculated. Result: The mean PEFR in the age group of 65–74 years for males was 339.44 ± 35.51 L/min. The correlation of PEFR was negative and highly significant with age, positive and significant with height, and nonsignificant with weight, BMI, and BSA. Conclusion: It was concluded that with advancing age, the PEFR declines. The mean PEFR values of taller subjects were also higher.