Aim: This study was performed to describe the relationship among anthropometric parameters and lung function in Greek children, to produce reference values for spirometry and to compare these results with other data sets.
Patients and methods: Spirometric values were measured with electronic portable Spirometer Spirolab II (MIR) in 414 healthy, nonsmoking Greek children, aged 6-18 years. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed for each spirometric parameter against age, height, weight and body mass index (BMI).
Results: The highest correlation was found with height. Predictive equations for: forced expiratory volume in the first sec (FEV(1)), forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory flow from 25%-75% of the vital capacity (FEF(25-75%)) and peak expiratory flow (PEF) with standing height as the dependent variable are presented for both sexes. Our reference values are close to those of other European children.
Conclusion: The developed predictive equations can be used in clinical practice in Greece and in other neighboring Balkan countries.