Abstract
Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) is an essential measure in the management and evaluation of asthmatic children. Lung function parameters show wide variations with respect to geographical, climatic, anthropometric and socioeconomic condition are well known. The aim of this study was to determine normal PEFR of adolescent boys and girls of West Bengal state in Eastern India and to derive prediction formula for this population. The PEFR was measured in 1288 healthy school students (767 boys and 521 girls) of Hooghly district using the mini Wright's peak flow meter. All measurements were recorded in standing posture and resting condition. Best out of the three trials was recorded. Weight and height were measured. BMI and BSA were calculated using height and weight. Correlation between various anthropometric variables and PEFR were calculated. Positive correlation was seen between PEFR and age, height, weight, BMI and BSA Simple and multiple regression analysis were used to determine the influence of anthropometric variables on PEFR. Highest correlation was seen with age for boys and girls. The boys had higher PEFR than girls in respect to height and age. Simple regression equations were predicted on the basis of age, height, weight and BSA for boys and girls. Multiple regression equations were predicted on the basis of two anthropometric variables having higher correlation coefficient with PEFR. Equations derived from this study for estimation of expected PEFR values would help the clinician in assessing the airway obstruction in adolescent boys and girls of Eastern India.
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