Objective: Prediction equations for spirometric lung volumes have been developed mainly in Europe and North America and may not be relevant to Pacific Islanders. This study was undertaken to determine whether currently available prediction equations adequately describe spirometric lung volumes in the asymptomatic adult Pacific Islander population.
Methodology: Healthy asymptomatic Pacific Island adults aged 15-70 years were recruited. Pulmonary function was measured in the laboratory at Green Lane Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand, in accordance with American Thoracic Society standards. Measured results were compared with predicted values derived from four sets of prediction equations relevant to, or currently used in, New Zealand.
Results: A total of 101 volunteers took part in the study; mean age 28 years (range 18-66 years), 39% male, body mass index = 32 (range 22-54). For forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC), when measured values were compared with reference values, the slopes of the regression lines were not significantly different from 1 and the intercepts were not significantly different from zero. Prediction equations derived for African-Americans did not provide a better fit than the prediction equations for Caucasians. Predictions were improved when ideal rather than actual bodyweight was used.
Conclusion: Respiratory parameters (FEV1 and FVC) in healthy asymptomatic adult Pacific Islanders in New Zealand are adequately described by currently available prediction equations and no adjustment for ethnicity is required.