Spirometric reference values in Estonian schoolchildren

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Human Physiology
• Biostatistics

Background:

• Establishing accurate lung function reference values is crucial for diagnosing respiratory conditions in children.
• Anthropometric parameters significantly influence lung volumes and airflow rates.
• Previous spirometry data in Estonian children is limited, necessitating updated reference equations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the relationship between anthropometric parameters and lung function in Estonian children aged 6-18.
• To determine and present reference values for spirometry in this population.
• To compare the derived reference values with existing datasets from European children.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 1170 healthy, non-smoking children (643 girls, 527 boys).
• Spirometry performed using the Pneumoscreen II (Jaeger) device to measure dynamic lung parameters.
• Regression analysis utilizing natural logarithmic values of lung volumes, height, and age to develop prediction equations.

Main Results:

• Prediction equations were generated for key spirometry measures including forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1).
• Reference values for various lung function parameters (FVC, FEV1, PEF, FEF50, FEF75, MEF50) are presented for both sexes.
• Estonian children's reference values closely matched European data for FVC, but showed greater divergence for FEV1 and forced expiratory flows, particularly in taller children.

Conclusions:

• The study provides updated, sex-specific spirometry reference equations for Estonian children.
• Anthropometric parameters, especially height, are important predictors of lung function in this cohort.
• Observed differences in FEV1 and expiratory flow rates warrant further investigation into population-specific factors affecting lung function.