Peak expiratory flow values in children relative to the degree of atmospheric air pollution.

The purpose of the study was to determine peak expiratory flow (PEF) values in children from three regions with different degrees of atmospheric pollution. The study included 1415 healthy children aged 7-9 years. In each child five measurements of PEF (1/min) were performed with a Vitalograph. The highest result was considered. The greatest degree of airway resistance, as reflected in low PEF values, was noted among children living in the Upper Silesian Industrial Region and in the Olkusz region where the degree of atmospheric pollution is high compared with Zarki.