[Value of the maximal expiratory flow-volume diagram in a longitudinal study. 2. Results in young adults]

In a 3-year follow-up we have investigated random samples of young men (initial age 20 to 24 years) by means of the modified BMRC questionnaire and maximal expiratory flow-volume curves. The participation in the second survey was relatively poor (51.9 p.c.). The lung function data of asymptomatic non-smokers were in good accordance with reference values of other authors. We found significant differences between smokers and non-smokers already in this age group. There was no correlation with the extent of smoking. Cessation of smoking resulted in improved ventilatory data, especially MEF 50. We found no close relation between bronchitis symptoms and ventilatory disturbances in these young men. Wheezing correlated better with lung function impairment. In young male adults the flow-volume curve seems to be somewhat more sensitive than conventional spirometry in contrast to the results in elder subjects.