Lung Function Reference Equations for Indian Ethnic Groups Based on a Handheld Forced Oscillation Device for Age 9-19...

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary medicine
• Pediatric respiratory research
• Biomedical engineering

Background:

• Lung function assessment is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring respiratory conditions in children.
• The forced oscillation technique (FOT) offers a non-invasive method for evaluating lung mechanics.
• Establishing reference equations specific to diverse populations, like Indian children, is essential for accurate interpretation of lung function data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate regression equations for predicting forced oscillation technique (FOT) parameters in Indian children and adolescents.
• To establish normative data for FOT parameters in a large, multi-ethnic cohort of Indian youth.
• To assess the influence of anthropometric variables and ethnicity on FOT measurements in the target population.

Main Methods:

• A multigeographic cohort of 1497 Indian children and adolescents (aged 9-19 years) underwent lung function testing using a portable FOT device (PulmoScan) and spirometry.
• Bland-Altman analysis was used to compare PulmoScan results with a standard IOS device in 32 adults.
• Multivariate regression models were employed to develop reference equations for resistance (Rrs) and reactance (Xrs), incorporating ethnicity (Indo-European, Dravidian, mixed) and anthropometric data (age, height, weight).

Main Results:

• The portable FOT device (PulmoScan) demonstrated good agreement with a standard IOS device, particularly for reactance (X5 bias = 0.02).
• Anthropometric variables (age, height, weight) showed significant correlations with FOT parameters, generally stronger in boys.
• Regression models identified ethnicity as a key determinant for FOT parameters, alongside anthropometry, leading to the development of multiethnic reference equations.

Conclusions:

• Novel, multiethnic reference equations for FOT parameters have been successfully developed for Indian children and adolescents aged 9-19 years.
• These equations, derived from a handheld FOT device, provide a valuable tool for assessing pediatric lung function in India.
• The findings highlight the importance of considering ethnic and anthropometric variations when interpreting FOT measurements in diverse pediatric populations.