Prediction of the maximal voluntary ventilation in healthy adult Chinese subjects

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between the FEV1 and maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV) in healthy adult Chinese subjects, and to determine the validity of existing prediction equations of MVV for use in the Chinese population. Methodology: Ninety-five healthy subjects (48 male and 47 female) stratified into five age groups (from 20 to 70 years) for both sexes were recruited from the general population. The FEV1 and MVV of these subjects were measured with a clinical spirometer. The MVV was determined using the closed-circuit technique. The MVV was assessed for 12 s and values were calculated to obtain L/min. Multiple regression analysis was used to develop equations to predict MVV with age, height, FEV1 as well as with FEV1 alone as predictor variables. One-sample t-tests were used to compare the actual values of MVV for the subjects with their predicted values using equations from previous studies of MVV in healthy subjects. Results: Using FEV1 only, the following predictive equation was obtained: MVV = FEV1 x 45.12 - 15.85 (adjusted r(2) = 0.792). Predicted MVV values using previously cited equations, including MVV = FEV1 x 35 or 40, were all significantly different from the actual MVV values of these subjects. Conclusions: The relationship between MVV and FEV1 among healthy adult Chinese subjects is described. Previously cited equations describing the relationship between FEV1 and MVV cannot be applied to healthy adult Chinese subjects.