Do the global lung function initiative reference equations reflect a sample of adult Middle Eastern population?

Clin Respir J. 2019 Jul;13(7):429-437. doi: 10.1111/crj.13027. Epub 2019 Apr 22.

Abstract

Introduction: The global lung function initiative (GLI) 2012 introduced new multi-ethnic spirometry reference values for numerous ethnicities.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the suitability of the GLI reference values for the adult Jordanian population.

Methods: About 1875 (1029 females and 846 males) healthy non-smoking adults were enrolled from several locations in Jordan. Spirometry tests were performed. z-scores and predicted normal values were calculated for each participant using GLI 2012 equations in addition to other local equations from the Middle East.

Results: Our results indicated that none of the GLI 2012 or other regional equations studied produced an acceptable fit to our data.

Conclusion: A need to formulate a specific equation for the Jordanian population is urgently required to better evaluate their respiratory conditions.

Keywords: Jordan; Middle East; global lung function initiative; pulmonary function tests; spirometry reference values.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Forced Expiratory Volume / physiology*
  • Global Health*
  • Healthy Volunteers
  • Humans
  • Linear Models
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Middle East
  • Reference Values
  • Sampling Studies
  • Sex Factors
  • Spirometry / methods*
  • Statistics, Nonparametric
  • Vital Capacity / physiology
  • Young Adult