A study of peak expiratory flow rates among tribal children of Mysore District.

In the context of a growing need for a comprehensive body of normal value of peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) among tribal children, the present study was undertaken. Two hundred forty-two children belonging to two scheduled tribes 'Soliga' and 'Jenukurubas' were studied, their PEFR was recorded and correlated with anthropometric data. There was a significant positive correlation between PEFR and age, height, weight, body surface area, arm span and chest expansion in the study group. This was compared with other Indian and Western studies and a nomogram to predict PEFR from height was constructed.