Reference spirometric values using techniques and equipment that meet ATS recommendations.

Forced expiratory volumes and flows were measured in 251 healthy nonsmoking men and women using techniques and equipment that meet American Thoracic Society (ATS) recommendations. Linear regression equations using height and age alone predict spirometric parameters as well as more complex equations using additional variables. Single values for 95% confidence intervals are acceptable and should replace the commonly used method of subtracting 20% to determine the lower limit of normal for a predicted value. Our study produced predicted values for forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in one second that were almost identical to those predicted by Morris and associates (1) when the data from their study were modified to be compatible with the back extrapolation technique recommended by the ATS. The study of Morris and colleagues was performed at sea level in rural subjects, whereas ours was performed at an altitude of 1,400 m in urban subjects. Either the present study or the study of Morris and co-workers, modified to back extrapolation, could be recommended for predicting normal values.