Estimation of reference values for the evaluation of respiratory function in infants and adults from Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico

Objective: To establish reference values for the evaluation of respiratory function in healthy children and adults from Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico.Population and Methods: Observational, retrospective, analytical study. Applying linear regression and semi-logarithmic regression techniques, we sought to find the best normality equation for the reference values of lung function focused on children from 9 to 12 years of age and adults from 21 to 55 years of age in the city of Mexicali, Baja California.Results: Prediction equations were obtained for the main spirometric parameters in the group of adults, based on age, sex, height and weight. Prediction equations were also achieved for the group of infants, based on sex, height and weight. Differences were found with the estimated equations in other populations of the country.Conclusions: The results reinforce the importance of having specific prediction equations for each region or geographical area, and avoiding using those generated in other geographical regions, even if they are from the country itself.