Longitudinal change in FEV1 and FVC in chronic spinal cord injury.

ABSTRACT:

Rationale

Although respiratory dysfunction is common in chronic spinal cord injury (SCI), determinants of longitudinal change in FEV(1) and FVC have not been assessed.

Objectives

Determine factors that influence longitudinal lung function decline in SCI.

Methods

A total of 174 male participants (mean age of 49 and 17 yr after injury) completed a respiratory questionnaire and underwent spirometry over an average follow-up of 7.5 years (range, 4-14 yr).

Measurements and main results

In multivariate models, longitudinal decline in FEV(1) was significantly related to continued smoking, persistent wheeze, an increase in body mass index, and respiratory muscle strength. Aging was associated with an accelerated decline in FEV(1) (for ages <40, 40-60, >60 yr: -27, -37,

SUBMITTER: Stolzmann KL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2277212 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature