Spirometric reference values in Senegalese black adults

Spirometric volumes and expiratory flows were measured among 448 Senegalese males and females of 25-80 yrs of age. The values obtained are similar to those reported for black Africans and black Americans in the literature. Volumes are 15-25% lower in males and 23% lower in females than in Caucasians. Forced expiratory flow between 25-75% of vital capacity (VC), (FEF25-75) is 5-18% lower in males and 19% lower in females. FEF25-75/VC ratio is higher in blacks than in Whites, but the forced expiratory volume in one second FEV1/VC ratio is similar in black and white subjects. However, we cannot use proportional factors to determine spirometric black standards from white reference values, so, equations of regression and nomograms with age and height are proposed for black Africans.