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Ventilatory function in normal Nigerian school children
African Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences
|March 1, 1979
Summary
This study determined normal lung function values for Nigerian school children. Results showed lower forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) compared to predicted values.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Public Health
- Anthropometry
Background:
- Establishing normative data for lung function is crucial for identifying respiratory abnormalities in children.
- Previous studies have indicated potential ethnic and environmental variations in lung function parameters.
- Limited data exists on lung function values specifically for Nigerian school-aged children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine reference values for lung function tests in Nigerian school children.
- To compare these values with established international standards.
- To investigate the correlation of lung function parameters with anthropometric measurements.
Main Methods:
- Lung function parameters, including forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), were measured in 522 school children (257 boys, 265 girls) aged 7-18 years in Ibadan.
- Measurements were conducted using a wedge bellows vitalograph.
- Data were analyzed to establish mean values and compare them with predicted values based on age, sex, height, and weight.
Main Results:
- The mean FVC and FEV1 values observed in Nigerian children were lower than predicted values matched for age, sex, height, and weight.
- These values were also found to be lower than those reported for Caucasian children.
- A significant positive correlation (P < 0.01) was found between FVC and age, weight, and height.
Conclusions:
- The study establishes lower-than-expected baseline lung function values for Nigerian school children.
- These findings highlight the need for region-specific reference standards for lung function assessment in this population.
- Age, height, and weight are significant predictors of lung function (FVC) in Nigerian children.
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