Researchers are improving the diagnosis of lung diseases by creating world wide standards. Lung function is measured by a spirometry test. As we have reported in previous blogs, this test involves blowing into a device that records:
1. The size of your lungs…
2. How fast you can breathe out (exhale)…
Until recently, there was no standardized guide, so if your spirometry test results were considered normal in one clinic, you might be deemed abnormal at another clinic. In York, England, researchers summarized the problem, “The interpretation of the results has, in the past, been complicated as there are no standard international metrics to help doctors understand the level of lung disease or disease progression.”
The good news is that the European Respiratory Journal recently published an extensive lung health chart. In fact, there is an entire software program based on their reports. In simple terms, the research includes such data as what your lung capacity should be, given your age, stature and ethnic group. This new guideline will assist doctors across the world so they can consistently report lung problems.
How Did They Create The Global Standard?
The international “Global Lung Function” study group researched 74,187 healthy non-smokers, aged 3–95 years. From this large sampling, they created lung growth charts. “The results have been approved by all the international respiratory societies, including the European Respiratory Society.” The huge job of the collection and organization of the Spirometric test data was undertaken by an interrnational team of scientists, doctors and technicians. Now we have an international standard by which all the doctors in the world can measure the performance of your lungs, thereby making diagnosis of lung disease and dysfunction much more exacting.
It was a good idea whose time had come, and an upbeat and worthy piece of research with which to close 2012. In fact the December timing of the publication of the new Global Standards For Lung Function, in the European Respiratory Journal, was like a Christmas gift to the world.
2013: Healthy Resolutions Your Lungs Will Love!
We would be remiss if we did not take this opportunity to present some of our favorite, healthy New Year’s Resolutions. According to Washington University, these are some of the most positive, soul satisfying and healthy New Year’s Resolutions you can make:
1. Let Your Lungs Out To Learn Something New! Uncovering a hidden passion, and interacting with new people is healthy for your mind, body, and breath. Take a new class, make a firm commitment to attend every class meeting, and breathe in a new excitement.
2. Take Your Lungs For A Walk In The Park! Lungs love this! Make this the year, you explore your hometown parks or beaches. If January weather does not permit this activity, take your lungs to an indoor gym or to a mall. The point is to breathe deep while you stride away your stress.
3. Volunteer Your Lungs! Investigate a group that needs your help. Working for the greater good of a community can refresh your mind, body, and spirit.
4. Deep Breathe While You Watch What You Eat: One interesting New Year’s Vow is to cut down or avoid white foods. Think about it: Sugar, flour, rice, potatoes, and dairy products. Lots of white foods have high caloric intake.
Clients, friends and readers! Thank you for reading our blog, and may the New Year, 2013, be full of happiness, health and harmony!