Abstract

THE CHARACTERISTICS AND DETERMINANTS OF MAXIMAL EXPIRATORY PRESSURE IN YOUNG ADULTS FROM TRIPURA

Objective: To obtain values for normal maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) in adolescent subjects (age 17-21yrs) of Tripura and to correlate the normal values of MEP with different anthropometric and respiratory parameters of the subject.Materials and Methods: Seventy (70) male and sixty seven (67) female subjects were included in the study through a randomized method of sampling. The height, weight, chest circumference, mid upper arm circumference, hip and waist circumference, blood pressure, heart rate, forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expired volume in 1 second (FEV1), peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) were recorded in the subject. Maximal expiratory pressure was recorded by using a modified Black’s apparatus. Results: MEP recorded in adolescent subjects from Tripura was comparable with those recorded in previous study for the similar age group. MEP correlated significantly with Age, Body weight, BMI, Chest expansion, and FEV1 of the subjects. Conclusion: The results of the study can be used to predict respiratory muscle strength in adolescent subjects. Methodology employed in the study will serve as a means for simple assessment of respiratory muscle strength of the subjects with lung disorder and also aid in planning the treatment strategy.

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