Peak expiratory flow rate of rural school children from Wardha district, Maharashtra in India

Background: Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) recording is an essential measure in the management and evaluation of asthmatic children. The PEFR can be measured by a simple instrument-peak expiratory flow meter. The aim of this study was to determine the normal PEFR in rural school children from Wardha district of Maharashtra state, India. Methods: The PEFR was measured in 1078 healthy rural school children, living in Wardha district, Maharashtra using the Mini-Wright peak flow meter. All measurements were obtained in a standing position and the best out of three trials was recorded. Anthropometric measurements, weight, height, and mid-upper-arm circumference (MAC) were recorded, and body surface area (BSA) and body mass index (BMI) were calculated. Results: Positive correlation was seen between age, height, weight and PEFR. The regression equations for PEFR were determined for boys and girls separately. The boys had higher values than the girls at all heights. The prediction equation for PEFR based on height was PEFR = 3.64 height (cm) - 257.86 (R=0.47, R-2=0.22) for female; PEFR = 4.7 height (cm) - 346.51 (R=0.62, R-2 =0.38) for male. Conclusion: PEFR is a reliable measurement, which can be used routinely and regularly in rural areas for assessment of airway obstruction and prediction formula derived for use in this population.