Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) levels in aboriginal and/or torres strait islander (Indigenous) Australians

Abstract

Introduction/Aim: Healthy FeNO levels are influenced by age, height, sex and ethnicity. However, there is no data on FeNO levels for Indigenous Australians. Our aim was to determine FeNO levels in young Indigenous Australians and to evaluate these FeNO levels according to current ATS guidelines. Method:Werecruited 605 Indigenous children and young adults (aged 3 to 25 years) from three Queensland communities. FeNO measurements were performed using Aerocrine NioxMINO analyzer. Measured FeNO levels were compared to current recommended age-dependent cut-off reference ranges. Evidence of asthma, allergic rhinitis, eczema and upper respiratory tract infections as possible influencing factors was assessed by ISAAC questionnaire and medical chart review. Results: Acceptable test measurements were achieved by 495 participants (age range 3.2-25.8 years). The cohort mean FeNO level was 18 ppb (95%CI 16.2, 19.7). Using current cut-off ranges, 250 (79%) children and 126 (70%) adults had FeNO levels within the normal/healthy range (<20 and<25 ppb, respectively). Table 1 summarizes FeNO levels and conditions. (table present). Conclusion: This is the first studymeasuring FeNO levels in Indigenous Australians. Continued recruiting andmore extensive data analysis are required to examine the influence of factors on FeNO measurements and to determine if ATS recommended cut-off ranges are suitable for use in a clinical setting in this population.L723168602016-06-29 <br />