Lung Function Tests Predict Long-term Health

Posted on 2002-10-04 06:38:09 in Respiratory |

A study carried out over 29 years has found that a quick and simple test of pulmonary function can predict the long-term health of a patient. By measuring the patients forced expiratory volume (FEV1) it is possible to predict mortality in men for up to 20 years and more than 25 years in women. The results of the test can predict the likelihood of death from respiratory disease (cause mortality) and general medical problems (all-cause mortality), allowing patients to take early steps to improve their lifestyle in order to better their health. The researchers found that pulmonary function was a significant predictor of all-cause mortality in men and women, with each 1% increase in FEV1 being associated with a 1-1.5% decrease in all-cause mortality.

SOURCE/REFERENCE: Chest 2000; 118: 656-664

Health Headlines MORE »

Fiber May Reduce Breast Cancer Risk
For every 10 g per day increase in soluble fiber intake, a woman may reduce her risk of breast cancer by up to 26%.
Soy Protein Boosts Brain Function
Peptides from soybeans modulate neurotransmitters, thereby helping to boost circulation in the brain.
Pepper Compounds for Weight Management
Capsaicin (found in hot peppers) and capsiates (present in sweet peppers) exert modest weight management benefits.
Americans Lag in Preventive Screenings
While over 20% of U.S. adults receive periodic health examinations each year, many do not receive recommended preventive screening tests and counseling services
The Stress – Obesity Connection
Researchers from Norway suggest a mechanism by which stress may make a person fat, and being obese may create stress.
Lack of Sleep Triggers Hunger
Swedish researchers report that people who are short on sleep experience greater levels of hunger.
Knock Out Anxiety
Among women with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), regular physical activity helps to reduce anxiety, irritability, feelings of tension, low energy and pain.
Magnesium Helps to Reduce Stroke Risk
For every 100 mg per-day increase in magnesium in the diet, stroke risk may decline by up to 9%.
Senior Runners Continue to Excel
The best male marathon runners over age 65, and the best female marathon runners over age 45, continue to consistently improve their performance.
Stem Cell Therapy Restores Vision
UCLA-led team safely uses human embryonic stem cells to treat macular degeneration.
Anti-Aging Forum Anti-Aging Forum Anti-Aging Forum Anti-Aging Forum
Anti-Aging textbook Anti-Aging Forum MLDP Anti-aging jobs Join A4M
ANTI-AGING TIP OF THE DAY
In Working Order
Men and women who stay mentally engaged in their original occupational field fare after retirement fare best mentally. University of Maryland (Maryland, USA) researchers studied 12,189 retired men and women, ages 51 to 61 years at the beginning of the study. The team revealed that those retirees who continued to work in a bridge job experienced fewer major diseases...
» MORE