Background: The peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) is affected by many factors, such as obesity, pollution, and sedentary lifestyle. This study aimed at the assessment of the pattern of PEFR among university students and factors affecting it.
Methods: Two hundred male students from four colleges participated in the study. They responded to a questionnaire inquiring sociodemographics, family history, and manifestations of allergy. The body weight and height as well as PEFR were measured.
Results: The median age was 22 years, 11.5% were married, 31% and 33.5% were active and passive smokers, respectively, and 11% had pet animals. Family history of allergy was recalled by 20% and 19% had manifestations of allergy as asthma (14%) and allergic rhinitis (6%). The PEFR ranged 250-680 l/minute (median: 520). Of all, overweight and obesity were present in 77%. Around 56.5% had PEFR < 520 l/minute and 43.5% had values ≥520. PEFR values were higher in males with large body frame than normal or low frame (p = 0.0015). PEFR values were lowest in active smokers (492.0 ± 75) followed by passive smokers (528.8 ± 83) and non-exposed participants (538 ± 83, p = 0.012). Meanwhile, PEFR < 520 was more frequent among students who recalled any type of allergy compared to others (63.2% vs. 38.9%, p = 0.001).
Conclusion: Low values of PEFR were associated with exposure to smoke, low body frame, and manifestations of allergy. Active measures, including health education, should be taken to promote the healthy lifestyle.
Key words: Pulmonary function, students, asthma, smoking, body built
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