Joseph, C MSridhar, C BRaphael, M1991-05-012009-05-311991-05-012009-05-311991-05-01Joseph CM, Sridhar CB, Raphael M. Spirometric indices of early airflow obstruction. Journal of the Indian Medical Association. 1991 May; 89(5): 135-7http://imsear.searo.who.int/handle/123456789/102701Thirty cigarette smokers and 25 non-smoking controls, all men were evaluated by history, physical examination and simple spirometry. The history and physical examination were not of much use in predicting airflow obstruction. Forced mid-expiratory flow (FEF 25-75%) was abnormally low in 23 of the 30 subjects, while forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and FEV1/FVC (forced vital capacity) were less sensitive. Thus simple spirometry is a useful screening tool to detect early airflow obstruction even when it is clinically undetectable.engAdultAirway Obstruction --diagnosisChronic DiseaseHumansIndiaMaleMiddle AgedPulmonary VentilationQuestionnairesSpirometryTime FactorsComparative Study