Peak expiratory flow rate in Saudi school boys at Al-Khobar City, Saudi Arabia

OBJECTIVE: To determine the normal peak expiratory flow rate for Saudi school boys living at Al-Khobar City.

METHODS: A self administered questionnaire was completed by the parents of 1312 school boys who satisfied the selection criteria of the study. Peak expiratory flow rate was measured for them, using Wright peak flow meter. The multiple linear regression equation for peak expiratory flow rate was generated where height, age, weight, socio-economic class, presence of smoker, pets or both at home were the independent variables.

RESULTS: Height, age and weight were found to correlate significantly with peak expiratory flow rate. However, only height and age were included in the final regression model which had a reasonably high coefficient of multiple determination value (R2 =0.72).

CONCLUSION: Peak expiratory flow rate values in this study were lower than those reported from Riyadh, other Arab countries, Europe and North America. However, they are close to those reported from Yanbu (Saudi Arabia). Normal values of peak expiratory flow rate for Saudi children should be developed.