Correlation of PEFR with age and BMI in children of 10-15 years of age

Background: Respiratory diseases represent the most important cause of morbidity/ mortality in children. In this a large number accounts to be obstructive airway disease. Allergic respiratory disorders particularly asthma are increasing in prevalence. Objectives: To study the correlation of age and BMI with peak expiratory flow rate in children aged 10-15 years. Methods: A total of 200 children were included. All tests were carried out with prior permission from the head of the schools and informed consent from children’s parents in local language. For each child detailed history and physical examination was done and all anthropometric parameters were measured and entered as per the proforma. Results: Around 54% of the children were Male and 46% of them were female. Majority of the children 24.5% were 13yrs, followed by 20.5% were 12yrs, 18.5% were 11yrs, 14.5% were 14yrs, 12.5% were 10yrs and only 9.5% were 15yrs. There was a positive correlation between PEFR and BMI with r value 0.471 and this correlation was statistically significant. PEFR and female BMI had more positive correlation than Male BMI. Conclusion: Maintenance of normal BMI in children and adolescents in order to prevent future risk of obstructive respiratory diseases. Prevention of malnutrition by dietary counselling, school health programmes, early detection of malnutrition by regular growth monitoring, health supplements and Obesity prevention by regular exercises and appropriate diet is important in maintaining normal PEFR.