Spirometric reference values in greek children and adolescents

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Anthropometry
• Spirometry

Background:

• Assessing lung function in children requires accurate reference values.
• Anthropometric parameters significantly influence respiratory capacity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the relationship between anthropometric measurements and lung function in Greek children.
• To generate normative spirometry reference values for this population.
• To compare these findings with existing European datasets.

Main Methods:

• Spirometry was conducted on 414 healthy, non-smoking Greek children (ages 6-18).
• Data analysis involved multiple linear regression using age, height, weight, and BMI.
• Predictive equations were developed for key spirometric parameters.

Main Results:

• Standing height showed the strongest correlation with lung function parameters.
• Predictive equations for FEV(1), FVC, FEF(25-75%), and PEF were generated.
• The derived reference values align closely with those of other European children.

Conclusions:

• The study provides validated predictive equations for spirometry in Greek children.
• These equations are applicable for clinical use in Greece and neighboring Balkan countries.
• This research contributes to standardized pediatric respiratory health assessment.