ASSESSMENT of ASSOCIATION of PULMONARY FUNCTION TEST with DIGIT RATIO

Abstract

Second to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) is sexually dimorphic with the ratio being lesser in male. Digit ratio has been considered as a proxy marker for exposure to sex steroids in utero. Digit ratio has been associated with various behavior traits, sporting abilities, diseases which have sex preponderance. Objective: To determine the association of digit ratio with certain specific pulmonary function test parameters. Methodology: This study was conducted on healthy volunteers of both sex aged between 19-22 years with 40 in each sex. Anthropometric measurements and digit ratio were measured. Pulmonary function parameters assessed include FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC and PEFR. Result: This study showed that PEFR was the only parameter which associated with Left digit ratio among female. A mean digit ratio of less than 1, when sex was not taken into consideration, negatively correlated with thePEFR. Conclusion: Digit ratio has significant association with Peak Expiratory Flow Rate.