ASSESSMENT OF PULMONARY FUNCTION TEST PROFILE AMONG SCHOOL- GOING CHILDREN IN REFERENCE TO ANTHROPOMETRIC PROFILE: A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

BACKGROUND: Protection of pediatric population by performing Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) is a primary concern. Lung function assessment is a crucial diagnostic and monitoring tool for a variety of pediatric respiratory conditions. Therefore, it is imperative to encourage primary care physicians and pediatricians to make implement of spirometry in the management of pediatric respiratory disorders. AIMS and OBJECTIVE: Given the rising concern of respiratory parameters according to Age, Weight, Height and Body Mass Index (BMI) , Head Circumference (HdC), Chest Circumference (CC), Upper Mid Arm circumference (UMAC), Waist Circumference (WC), Hip Circumference (HC), and Waist Hip Ratio (WHR) among children. This study aims to investigate respiratory health by comparing Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) parameters with anthropometric parameters in children. Material and Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted among 555 normal healthy school children (352 boys and 203 girls) aged 8 to 17 years studying from grades V to X standard. Anthropometric measurements including Height, Weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), Head Circumference (HdC), Chest Circumference (CC), Upper Mid Arm circumference (UMAC), Waist Circumference (WC), Hip Circumference (HC), and Waist–Hip Ratio (WHR)were systematically recorded. Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) were conducted with the children in upright sitting position utilizing the Digital RMS-MED spirometersubsequent to obtaining informed written consent from their parents. Strict protocols were implemented to guarantee for accuracyand standardization throughouttesting process. RESULTS: Pulmonary Function Test Profile were found to be statistically significant in our study group. In both boys and girls, PFT values exhibits strong positive correlation with age, and height, weight, Chest Circumference (CC), Upper Mid Arm circumference (UMAC), Waist Circumference (WC), Hip Circumference (HC), which was found to be statistically significant (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: In summary, Pulmonary Function Testing serves as a vital diagnostic tool in pediatric care. Spirometry must be a reliable and practical method to ensure accurate assessment. Regular reappraisal of the acquired skills of the pediatricians and technicians is the key for ensuring quality. Body mass index (BMI), Respiratory health, Respiratory function.