The Global Lung Function Initiative (GLI) Network: bringing the world's respiratory reference values together

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Medical Informatics

Background:

• The Global Lung Function Initiative (GLI) Network represents the most extensive compilation of reference values for routine lung function testing.
• This article extends previous work published in Breathe (2013) by detailing the GLI Network's origins, significance, and future trajectory.

Purpose of the Study:

• To showcase advancements by the GLI Network over the last five years.
• To emphasize the critical importance of adopting GLI reference values for routine lung function tests like spirometry and gas transfer.
• To address persistent challenges in developing and refining lung function test reference values.

Main Methods:

• The GLI Network has established standardized reference values for spirometry and gas transfer tests through international collaboration.
• A recently established GLI data repository facilitates ongoing development and evaluation of these reference values.

Main Results:

• The GLI Network has successfully produced standardized lung function reference values.
• These reference equations are vital for consistent interpretation of spirometry and gas transfer tests globally.

Conclusions:

• The GLI Network's success stems from international collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and industry partners.
• Immediate worldwide adoption of GLI reference equations for spirometry and gas transfer is recommended for clinicians and physiologists.
• The GLI data repository will support continuous improvement of reference values and enable novel research opportunities.