Estimation of cardio-pulmonary function by means of the age equivalent

Many of the cardio-pulmonary function variables depend on age showing a deterioration with increasing age. Reversing this relationship age can be estimated by cardio-pulmonary variables. In the present study, age was estimated using a multiple regression equation including variables measured at rest and at exercise. The difference between estimated and chronological age is called the age equivalent. (delta A). Formulas for estimating delta A have been established in 59 strictly defined normal subjects and applied on groups of athletes, smokers and foundry workers. Using the delta A, factors such as physical fitness, smoking habits, heaviness of work and dust exposure can be discriminated. It is concluded that the age equivalent is more useful in epidemiological surveys than in individual analysis of functional capacity. The age equivalent may be an approach to data reduction in cardio-pulmonary function analysis.