Comparison of pulmonary function amongst Ladakhi, Delhi, Vanvasi and Siddi female athletes

Lung functions were studied in contemporary healthy Indian female athletes of Ladakhi, Delhi, Vanvasi and Siddi origin training for running events of varying distances. The aim of the study was to compare the lung function in females belonging to these four groups to examine lung function in relation to ethnic and environmental factors. Vital Capacity (VC), Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in Ist second (FEV1), Expiratory Reserve Volume (ERV), and Inspiratory Capacity (IC) were recorded using conventional closed circuit spirometry. Maximum Voluntary Ventilation (MVV) was estimated by collecting expired air during deep and rapid breathing in a 100 liters meterological balloon for a period of 15 seconds and measuring its volume. It was found that Ladakhi females were having significantly higher VC, FVC and FEV1 values than their counterparts. However, there was no significant difference in MVV amongst Delhi, Siddi and Vanvasi young females. The average MVV of Ladakhi females was only significantly higher than Siddi females (P < 0.05).