Wright Peak Flow Meter Research Articles

Ефективність ентеросорбції та системної ензимотерапії у лікуванні хворих із загостренням бронхіальної астми та коморбідною патологією органів травлення

Ефективність ентеросорбції та системної ензимотерапії у лікуванні хворих із загостренням бронхіальної астми та коморбідною патологією органів травлення

Clinical applicability of peak expiratory flow measured with peak flow metre compared to spirometer in a resource-limited setting

Background: Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF) is the maximum flow produced during a forced expiration following a full inspiration. It is useful in the management of lung diseases especially the domiciliary assessment of disease control in patients with Asthma. PEF can be measured with either a peak flow meter or a spirometer. We aimed at comparing PEF measured using a Mini Wright peak flow meter with PEF measured using Spirolab III spirometer in order to assess its clinical applicability in resource-limited settings.Method: A method-comparison study with records of PEF values at the Niger-Delta University Teaching Hospital, Okolobiri. Hypotheses were formulated and tested after data was analyzed using the IBM SPSS version 25 software.Results: PEF readings of a total of 100 adults were analyzed. Mean age was 48.90 ± 19.77 years. Males (51%) were slightly more than females (49%). One- sample t-test showed no statistical difference in the mean PEF values measured with the two devices (p = 0.295). There was significant correlation between the PEF values measured with the two devices (p<0.0001) with demonstration of agreement and absence of proportional bias in the PEF values measured by the two methods following linear regression analysis (p = 0.959).Conclusion: PEF values obtained from the Mini wright PEF meter and the Spirolab III spirometer are comparable. Therefore, the Mini Wright peakflow meter may be effectively used in the diagnosis and monitoring of Asthma and other lung diseases in resource-limited settings.

PEAK EXPIRATORY FLOW RATE (PEFR) VALUES OBTAINED WITH WRIGHT'S PEAK FLOW METER AND DIGITAL SPIROMETER IN OBSTRUCTIVE AIRWAY DISEASE (OAD) PATIENTS – A COMPARATIVE STUDY

Introduction: Peak expiratory ow rate (PEFR) is the highest ow achieved from a maximum forced expiratory maneuver and is a good modality in diagnosing and monitoring Br.asthma; in COPD it gives a rough estimate of the severity of obstruction.Normal values in males and females range between 320-550L/min. PEFR values can be obtained by a Peak Flow Meter or by standard Spirometer. To compare PEFR values obtained Aims And Objectives: by Wright's Peak Flow meter and those obtained by a Digital Spirometer and to understand Whether PEFR values are reliable in the diagnosis and monitoring of Obstructive Airway Disease. 75 Consecutive patients who pr Materials And Methods: esented with a history of COPD, Br.asthma or Bronchiectasis to the Respiratory Medicine OP, Govt General Hospital, Nellore, AP were recruited to the studyand PEFR values were recorded by both Peakowmeter and Spirometer. The rang Results: e of PEFR values obtained was between 120-480 L/min .and the difference was in the range of 9-164 L/min. In the present study the Conclusion: difference in values is not very signicant andhence PEFR can be used as a diagnostic & monitoring tool in OAD.

Adiposity: Determinant of Peak Expiratory Flow Rate in Young Indian Adults Male

Although several factors such as respiratory muscle strength, lung compliance, resistance to airflow, and even obesity affect the lung functions, the nature of relationship with markers of adiposity is not clear. We hypothesised that central pattern of fat distribution is a significant predictor of decreased peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). The present study was designed with the aim to examine the effects of adiposity on PEFR in males. One hundred young healthy male volunteers were analysed in the study. They were classified into non-obese, and obese groups based on body mass index (BMI) (obese > or = 30 Kg/m2 and non-obese < 30 Kg/m2). The PEFR was measured by using Wright's peak flow meter. Data was analysed using unpaired 't' test for statistical significance of differences between the non-obese and the obese, stratified into age groups of 20 to 30 years and 30 to 40 years. A partial correlation adjusted to age, height and BMI followed by regression analysis was conducted using adiposity markers as a predictor of PEFR. The model adjusted to age, height, weight and BMI revealed waist hip ratio (WHR) as the only parameter which shows significant variance in PEFR with a Pearson's r=-0.59, F (1, 100)=12.23, p=0.04. The resulting linear regression equation is y=-388.72xWHR+850.68. Our findings suggest that obesity itself and especially the pattern of body fat distribution have independent effects on PEFR. These results suggest that abdominal adiposity, measured as WHR, is a better predictor of expiratory flow than weight or BMI.

Anthropometric Variables and PEFR

Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) varies with anthropometric variables like calendar age, body height, body weight, and body surface area in different regions. The present study aims at analyzing the relationship of PEFR with anthropometric variables to know a reference value in this region. We conducted the present study on healthy adult males aged eighteen to forty-five years engaged in works where they were un-exposed to pollutants in Patiala, India. Subgroups were made in each anthropometric variable category. PEFR recording was done using Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter. Results are expressed as mean PEFR ± standard deviation (mean ± S.D.), while the students' t-test was used to determine the differences between the means. We observed a linear increase in PEFR with all anthropometric variables. The correlation of PEFR with anthropometric variables was determined. PEFR is positively correlated with body height and body surface area (r =+0.20) and negatively correlated with calendar age (r = - 0.24) and body weight (r = - 0.02). We conclude that PEFR correlates best with body height (r = +0.48), and the result is highly significant (p < 0.01).

The reference values of peak expiratory flow rate in Thailand children.

BackgroundDaily evaluation of peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) is quite useful for monitoring and adjusting an asthmatic patient’s treatment. Many factors including geography, ethnicity, socio-economic conditions, gender, and anthropometric play a role in lung function differences studies have found. The aim of this study is to present normal PEFR and to establish a PEFR equation for Thai children living in a suburban environment.MethodsThis study includes a cross-section of healthy children aged 6 to 18. It was conducted in Phitsanulok Province in the lower north of Thailand. The children were chosen to participate from five primary and secondary schools over the period from February 2014 to January 2015. The children were instructed on how to use the Wright peak flow meter (Clement Clarke International Ltd.). All of the participants performed PEFR 3 times and the highest value was recorded.ResultsA total of 2,000 students were initially examined; 80 students were excluded from the study. A total of 1,920 healthy children were recruited between the ages of 6 and18 years. Among them, 719 (37.4%) were males and 1,201 (62.6%) were females. The median age was 18 [12–18] years old, mean height, weight, body mass index (BMI) and PEFR were 155.98±14.99 cm, 51.38±16.95 kg, 20.62±4.79 kg/m2 and 339.31±113.55 L/min, respectively. PEFR has a linear relationship in regards age, weight, height and BMI. For males, age was the strongest factor associated with PEFR (r=0.838, P<0.001). Females had a highly significant correlation between height and PEFR (r=0.532, P<0.001). The regression equations are PEFR = (1.34 × height) + (1.41 × weight) + (16.56 × age) – 137.88 for males (R2=0.751, P<0.001) and PEFR = (1.31 × height) + (0.94 × weight) + (7.30 × age) – 55.27 for females (R2=0.507, P<0.001).ConclusionsThis research study has provided the normal range of PEFR for Thai children aged from 6 to 18 years in Phitsanulok. The data was obtained using the Wright peak flow meter. Height, weight, and age were the significant determiners of the PEFR for each sex in the regression equation.

Significance of Expiratory Muscle Strength in Gynecologic Patients after Spinal Anesthesia

Background: The spinal block has become a favorable technique for gynecologic surgery. However, the level of sympathetic blockade results in weak diaphragm and respiratory muscles as well as cough impairment. Investigators were curious to assess patients’ respiratory functions after spinal anesthesia. Materials and Methods: One hundred forty-five gynecologic patients undergoing elective, exploratory laparotomy with spinal anesthesia were included. The blowing practice of a Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter was performed until patients became comfortable with it. A given patient blew the device three times, and the best value was chosen to assess peak expiratory flow rates (PEFRs): prior to surgery (P1), after the spinal block (P2), and in the recovery room (P3). Results: At the thoracic blockade level as T was 4 or less and T was greater than 4, PEFR at P1, P2 and P3 were 285.9±5.9, 222.3±4.9, and 216.4±6.4 mL, and 302.8±7.7, 224.9±6.4, and 203.4±8.4 mL, respectively. The PEFRs showed no significant differences among the levels of blockade at the ward (p=0.082), the operating theater (p=0.744), and the recovery room (p=0.211). Though P3 seemed to fall, there was no marked difference between P2 and P3 (p=0.224). However, either P2 or P3 appeared to decrease sharply (p&lt;0.001) in comparison with P1. Conclusion: A Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter can be used as a bedside device to measure PEFRs. The substantial decrease of PEFR was related to the level of sympathetic blockade after spinal anesthesia. Keywords: Anesthesia, Spinal block, Peak expiratory flow rate, Gynecology

EFFECT OF BODY MASS INDEX ON PEAK EXPIRATORY FLOW RATE

Obesity has become one of the major health issues in India. WHO defines obesity as “A condition with excessive fat accumulation in the body to the extent that the health and wellbeing are adversely affected”. Obesity results from a complex interaction of genetic, behavioral, environmental and socioeconomic factors causing an imbalance in energy production and expenditure. Peak expiratory flow rate is the maximum rate of airflow that can be generated during forced expiratory manoeuvre starting from total lung capacity. The simplicity of the method is its main advantage. It is measured by using a standard Wright Peak Flow Meter or mini Wright Meter. The aim of the study is to see the effect of body mass index on Peak Expiratory Flow Rate values in young adults. The place of a study was done tertiary health care centre, in India for the period of 6 months. Study was performed on 80 subjects age group 20 -30 years, categorised as normal weight BMI =18.5 -24.99 kg/m2 and overweight BMI =25-29.99 kg/m2. There were 40 normal weight BMI (Group A) and 40 over weight BMI (Group B). BMI affects PEFR. Increase in BMI decreases PEFR. Early identification of risk individuals prior to the onset of disease is imperative in our developing country.&#x0D; Keywords: BMI, PEFR.

Assessment of respiratory morbidity among bus drivers and conductors of the state road transport corporation, Kochi, Kerala.

Introduction:In 2012, 8% of the 2.3 million work-related deaths globally were from chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs). This study was undertaken to estimate the prevalence of respiratory morbidity among the drivers and conductors of the public road transport network in Kochi.Methodology:A cross-sectional study was carried out in the public bus stand (South), Kochi between September 2015 and 2017 among bus drivers and conductors. The interview was conducted among 300 bus drivers and conductors using a locally adapted version of ATS-DLD-78-A questionnaire. Lung function assessment was done using a Mini Wright peak flow meter and a portable spirometer. Data were tabulated using MS Excel and analyzed using SPSS v20.Results:The prevalence of CRD among bus drivers and conductors was found to be 9.97% (95% CI 7.34–14.66) and chronic respiratory symptoms were found to be 19.2% (95% CI 14.58–23.82). On logistic regression, the independent predictors for the CRD were found to be working for more than 15 h/day (OR 2.815, 95% CI 1.26–6.28) and working for more than 4 days/week (OR 2.462, 95% CI 1.12–5.39).Conclusion:CRD exists as a public health problem affecting approximately one in ten bus drivers and conductors in Kochi city. Applying the logical principles of ergonomics by modifying duty hours may be considered.

Peak expiratory flow rate assessment to screen for asthma in children with allergic rhinitis

Background: Allergic rhinitis is a common disease affecting around 10-25% of the population worldwide. There is a temporal relationship between the onset of allergic rhinitis and asthma and the ‘unified airway hypothesis’ explains this. Many researchers have demonstrated bronchial hyper-responsiveness prior to onset of asthma symptoms further validating this hypothesis. Further many studies favour treating allergic rhinitis may prevent the onset of asthma. So, detecting allergic rhinitis earlier and treating it adequately is of vital importance. The aims and objectives of this study is to identify bronchial hyper responsiveness in children with allergic rhinitis, prior to the onset of asthmatic symptoms, by measuring PEFR and its clinical correlates.Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in Department of Paediatrics in Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital. Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria were defined, and the study was conducted on a total of 85 children. After taking informed consent from parents, the children coming under the study population were analyzed for their baseline characteristics and PEFR is measured using a low reading Mini Wright peak flow meter and compared with mean value of south Indian children using the formula, PEFR= {(HEIGHT IN CM-100) X5} +100.Results: The mean PEFR as expressed in percentage of expected PEFR is 77.28% in males and 83.34% in females. The mean percentage of expressed PEFR does not vary significantly between different age groups. Of the 85 children,48(56.5%) have mild intermittent allergic rhinitis,28(32.9%) have mild persistent allergic rhinitis,5(5.9%) have moderate-severe intermittent allergic rhinitis and 4(4.7%) have moderate-severe persistent allergic rhinitis. There were 37(43.5%) blockers (with predominant nose block) and 48(56.5%) runners (with predominant rhinorrhea).Conclusions: PEFR is abnormal in 41.2% of children with allergic rhinitis. PEFR reduces linearly as the severity of allergic rhinitis increases. PEFR decreases as the number of cardinal symptoms increases. PEFR increases significantly after treatment of allergic rhinitis alone.

High Prevalence of Chronic Respiratory Symptoms among Autorickshaw Drivers of Urban Puducherry, South India.

Context:Auto-rickshaw (three wheelers open cabin type of vehicle) drivers are exposed to traffic air pollution. Studies have demonstrated reduced pulmonary function among drivers. However, limited studies have determined the prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) among drivers.Aims:Among auto-rickshaw drivers of urban Puducherry to determine prevalence of (i) chronic respiratory symptoms by using Indian Study on Epidemiology of Asthma, Respiratory Symptoms, and Chronic Bronchitis (INSEARCH) questionnaire and (ii) COPD by measuring peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR).Setting and Designs:Cross-sectional, descriptive study.Subjects and Methods:Cluster random sampling was used to select 297 auto-rickshaw drivers. Subjects were interviewed using the INSEARCH questionnaire. PEFR was measured using Wright's peak flow meter. We also assessed exposure to tobacco smoke.Statistical Analysis Used:Prevalence and 95% confidence interval of chronic respiratory symptoms and COPD were calculated.Results:All the auto-rickshaw drivers were male, and 75% were in the age group of 31–50 years. They spend most of the time on the roadside either driving or waiting at the auto-stand. Prevalence of nonspecific respiratory symptoms among auto-rickshaw drivers was 76% (breathlessness on exertion 68%, cough at night and phlegm in the morning 22%, wheezing 18% assessed for last 12 months). Around 28% of them had PEFR <80%. The prevalence of tobacco smoking was also high (64%), and 100% had exposure to tobacco smoke at the workplace.Conclusion:The nonspecific chronic symptoms were high among auto-rickshaw drivers as compared to the general population noted from a multicentric study done in India. We recommend that auto-rickshaw drivers should use personal protective equipment and would require regular screening and treatment for respiratory impairment.

Effect Of Cigarette Smoking On Peak Expiratory Flow Rate: A Short Review

Tobacco smoking in India has been increasing alarmingly. Smoking is a known risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers, especially, the lung cancer. Carbon monoxide from the smoke and nicotine both put a strain on the heart by making it work faster Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) is a simple index of pulmonary function and can be used in researchers, clinical practices and even under field conditions to assess the status of large airways. PEFR is decreased in cigarette smokers compared to non-smokers and the magnitude of decline is higher in elderly individuals. KEYWORDS: Peak expiratory flow rate; Smokers; Wright's peak flow meter.

Normal Peak Expiratory Flow Rate of School Children in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.

To measure the Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) of healthy school children and to find out the correlation between PEFR values and anthropometric parameters, to create a nomogram of PEFR for children and formulate a regression formula for PEFR. A cross-sectional study was conducted on healthy school children between the age group of 10 and 16 y, at three higher secondary schools selected in urban area of Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. After collecting baseline data, PEFR was measured using mini Wright peak flow meter. The highest of three measurements were recorded for analysis. Of the 2607 students screened, 2156 were included in the study. Out of which 757 were boys and 1399 were girls. Significant linear correlation was seen in PEFR with height, weight and BMI (r=0.847, r=0.750 & r=0.466 respectively, p<0.001). Nomograms were plotted based on the observed values of PEFR in the study population. Prediction equations were derived for PEFR with height and weight in boys and girls. Prediction equations for PEFR are -464+1.408×Weight (kg)+439.192×Height (m) in boys and -486.544+1.064×Weight (kg)+462.282×Height (m) in girls. Significant correlation was noted between PEFR and anthropometric parameters like height, weight and BMI. Hence, nomogram and formula created can be used in the study area.

VARIATION OF PEAK EXPIRATORY FLOW RATE WITH BODY MASS INDEX IN THE FIRST YEAR MALE MEDICAL STUDENTS OF VISWABHARATHI MEDICAL COLLEGE, KURNOOL

Background: Obesity has become one of the major health issues in India. WHO defines obesity as “A condition with excessive fat accumulation in the body to the extent that the health and wellbeing are adversely affected”. Obesity results from a complex interaction of genetic, behavioral, environmental and socioeconomic factors causing an imbalance in energy production and expenditure. Peak expiratory flow rate is the maximum rate of airflow that can be generated during forced expiratory maneuver starting from total lung capacity. The simplicity of the method is its main advantage. It is measured by using a standard Wright Peak Flow Meter or mini Wright Meter. The pulmonary disorders due to obesity results in increased mortality and morbidity. Aims: To study the effect of Body Mass Index on Peak Expiratory Flow Rate in Medical students. Methods & Methods: study was performed on 60 Male age group of 17-22 Years, categorized as normal Weight BMI= 18.5-24.99kg/m2 and overweight BMI= 25-29.99 Kg/m2. There were 30 students with normal Weight BMI and 30 students with overweight BMI. Normal weight BMI subjects acted as control group to compare the Peak Expiratory Flow Rate with over weight. The parameters studied were weight, height, age, body mass index and Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). Student’s unpaired t-test was used for two group’s comparison. Results: The results of the investigation revealed a significantly lower Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) among the overweight BMI subjects compared to normal weight BMI subjects. Conclusion: Thus it is evident from the present study that obesity significantly affects the pulmonary functions which may give rise to long term complications and may lead to early morbidity and mortality.Key words: Peak Expiratory Flow Rate; Body Mass Index; Obesity.

Predictive Regression Equations of Flowmetric and Spirometric Peak Expiratory Flow in Healthy Moroccan Children.

Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF) has never been characterised among healthy Moroccan school children. To study the relationship between PEF and anthropometric parameters (sex, age, height and weight) in healthy Moroccan school children, to establish predictive equations of PEF; and to compare flowmetric and spirometric PEF with Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1). This cross-sectional study was conducted between April, 2016 and May, 2016. It involved 222 (122 boys and 100 girls) healthy school children living in Ksar el-Kebir, Morocco. We used mobile equipments for realisation of spirometry and peak expiratory flow measurements. SPSS (Version 22.0) was used to calculate Student's t-test, Pearson's correlation coefficient and linear regression. Significant linear correlation was seen between PEF, age and height in boys and girls. The equation for prediction of flowmetric PEF in boys was calculated as 'F-PEF = -187+ 24.4 Age + 1.61 Height' (p-value<0.001, r=0.86), and for girls as 'F-PEF = -151 + 17Age + 1.59Height' (p-value<0.001, r=0.86). The equation for prediction of spirometric PEF in boys was calculated as 'S-PEF = -199+ 9.8Age + 2.67Height' (p-value<0.05, r=0.77), and for girls as 'S-PEF = -181 + 8.5Age + 2.5Height' (p-value<0.001, r=0.83). The boys had higher values than the girls. The performance of the Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter was lower than that of a spirometer. Our study established PEF predictive equations in Moroccan children. Our results appeared to be reliable, as evident by the high correlation coefficient in this sample. PEF can be an alternative of FEV1 in centers without spirometry.

Effect of particulate matter (PM 10) pollutant concentration on peak expiratory flow rate score in junior high school students

Background Various pollutants especially particulate matter withdiameter of 10 micrometer or less (PM 10) reduce the function oflung. However, its effect to peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) as aparameter of central airway resistance is still inconsistent.Objective This study was designed to assess the impact of differ-ent PM 10 concentration to PEFR score among junior high schoolstudents who live in two areas.Methods It was a descriptive analytical study with cross sectionaldesign to junior high school students who lived in areas with highPM 10 i.e, Cililin sub district (252.63 mg/m 3 /h) and low PM 10 i.e.,Paseh sub district (27.15 mg/m 3 /h). PEFR was measured by usingMini Wright Peak Flow Meter and body weight by microtoire. Dataof indoor pollutants were collected from questionnaires.Results There were 463 subjects, 242 students in Cililin and 221students in Paseh, who fulfilled the inclusion criteria which wereaged 12 –15 years, living more than one years continuously withinradius of 5 km from the location of pollutant measurement, nonsmokers, and considered “health” according to history taking andphysical examination. The PEFR score in Cililin (305.9+57.9 l/min)was significantly lower than that in Paseh (327.7+54.8 l/min (t=4.15;p&lt;0.001)).Conclusion Although the influence of indoor pollutants especiallycooking stoves could not be ignored, the difference of PEFR scorein these two groups were possibly due to the different concentra-tion of PM 10

Peak Expiratory Flow Rate: A Useful Tool for Early Detection of Airway Obstruction in School Children

Context: Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) is an effort-dependent parameter, emerging from the large airways within about 100-120 msec of the start of forced expiration. It measures the degree of obstruction in the airways. A child from an asthmatic family, having significantly low PEFR values than its height and age matched peers, can be considered under impending asthma category. Aims: The present study was proposed to detect early stages of airway obstruction in school going children. Settings and Design: Observational study conceived in the department of Physiology, AIIMS, Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Methods and Material: Hundred students of age group 7-15 years participated in the study. A family history for presence/absence of asthmatic symptoms was taken from all subjects. After anthropometric examination, PEFR values were recorded in standing position, using the Mini Wright Peak Flow meter after demonstrating them the right procedure. Three measurements were taken and the highest reading was recorded. Statistical Analysis Used: Fisher’s exact test was done to calculate the two tailed ‘P’ value, Odd’s ratio and relative risk. Results: Thirty-one Percent children with family history of airway obstruction showed PEFR values below 80% of the predicted value, while 5.74% who were not having any family history of asthma, also showed values below 80% of the predicted value. With Fisher’s exact test, the two tailed ‘P’ value was 0.0155 (significant). Conclusion: The results of this study support the vital role of PEFR related to changes in airflow, which eventually can result in early identification of children with airway obstruction.

A study of postural variation in peak expiratory flow rates in healthy adult female subjects in South India

Background: Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) reflects the strength and condition of respiratory muscles and the degree of airflow limitation in large airways. PEFR shows postural variation that follows a specific pattern in asthmatics and healthy individuals has been identified. Adequate data are not available for the postural variation in normal individuals, who are students in professional courses, and had a sedentary lifestyle. Lung volumes in normal subjects were significantly higher in a standing position. Others have reported that in healthy subjects spirometric indices were higher in the standing in comparison with the sitting position whereas other studies have reported no differences between spirometric values obtained in lying, sitting, and standing positions. Hence, this study is undertaken to study the postural variation in PEFR in healthy adult female subjects in South India. Methods: PEFR was recorded in 50 adult healthy female students aged 18-23 years and studying in professional courses (MBBS, BDS, Nursing, and MSc). Mini wright's peak flow meter was used to measure the PEFR. Three readings were taken PEFR in standing and lying posture. Best of three recordings is taken as the final value. Results: PEFR is decreased in lying posture compared to standing posture in subjects studied, and the quantum of difference was noted. Conclusion: In postural changes, PEFR measurements significantly differ based on whether the measurements are taken in the standing or in the lying posture in healthy participants. The effect of posture may be of importance in recording PEFR and changing to a better posture may be especially useful for those patients with weak expiration.

Comparison of peak expiratory flow rate in healthy urban and rural school children in and around Bangalore: a cross sectional study

Background: Among the chronic airway disease affecting children bronchial asthma is an important entity. It is a disease which is associated with fluctuation in the airway caliber and one of the earliest signs of attack is a fall in peak expiratory flow rate. Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) measurement is a simple and a reliable way of detecting airway obstruction. In the study determination of PEFR of children in relation to the other anthropometric parameters, gender, environmental parameters and socioeconomic status was evaluated. Comparison of PEFR of urban and rural children was done to see for any significant difference. Methods: A cross sectional study was done comparing a total of 563 children in the age group of 6 to 14 years from both urban and rural limits of Bangalore (290 from urban and 273 from rural). Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter was used to record PEFR. Results: Positive co-relation was found between anthropometric variables like height, weight and body surface area with PEFR. P value showed significant difference between those who were exposed to pets than those who were not. P value difference was not significant between the urban and the rural children. With better socioeconomic status children had better PEFR. Conclusions: There is no significant difference between PEFR of urban and rural children. It does not vary between boys and girls significantly. It varies with the built of the body. Pet exposure has a significant effect on PEFR values in children. Children from lower socioeconomic status have a lower PEFR compared to those from higher socioeconomic status.

Prevalence of chronic respiratory disorders in a rural area of North West India: A population-based study.

Introduction:Chronic respiratory diseases are an important cause of disability across the globe. The global burden of these diseases is showing a discernible upward trend. It is estimated that 500 million people suffer from them.Materials and Methods:The study was conducted with the aim to estimate the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in a rural Indian population. For this, a population-based survey was conducted using modified British Medical Research Council questionnaire. This was followed by subjecting the respondents to Wright's mini peak flow meter to find out the peak expiratory flow rate to diagnose the COPD cases.Results:The prevalence of chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, and COPD was found to be 3.36%, 1.18%, and 4.21%, respectively.Conclusions:Chronic respiratory disorders are more prevalent among rural adults hinting to a rural-urban divide. Therefore, the focus of preventive strategies should take into account this difference.