Forced spirometry reference values for Norwegian adults: the Bronchial Obstruction in Nord-Trondelag study

The purpose of this study was to develop new prediction equations for flow/volume spirometry parameters in asymptomatic, never-smoking adults in Norway and to assess any differences of these parameters when applying the new and most commonly used equation sets. Flow/volume spirometry was measured according to the American Thoracic Society criteria in 2,792 subjects aged greater than or equal to 20 yrs, randomly selected from participants in the Nord-Trondelag Health Study. Ever-smokers and subjects with respiratory symptoms and/or diseases reported in this questionnaire were excluded. A total of 546 females and 362 males met the inclusion criteria and were included in the analyses. Most lung function variables were nonlinear by age and had to be transformed. After a plateau in younger adults, the variables declined by age. The reference values for forced expiratory volume in one second and forced vital capacity from the present study, were higher than those given by prediction equations from the European Community for Coal and Steel, but in closer agreement with later studies from Europe, Australia and the USA. Healthcare providers should be encouraged to reconsider their choice of prediction equations of spirometry in order to improve management of obstructive lung diseases.