Background: Peak expiratory flow rate recording is an important measure in the management and evaluation of chidren with asthma. The aim of the study was to construct the normal PEFR values of school going children in the age group of 10 – 16 years. Objective: To obtain reference values for PEFR among children aged 10 to 16 years in Srinagar. Material and methods: This cross sectional study was conducted among 639 children (336 boys and 303 girls) of Srinagar city aged 10 to 16 years studying in V to VII standard during March 2012 to May 2013. A preformed, pretested questionnaire was used and detailed general physical and systemic examination was done to label children as normal. Height and weight were measured. PEFR measurements were done in standing position with Wrights Mini Peak Flowmeter after taking informed consent from parents. Results: Of all 639 subjects studied, males comprised 52.6% and females comprised 47.4%. Mean age was 12.93 years (SD = 2.00 years). Mean PEFR was 277.38 L/min (males: 300.6 L/min and females: 250.8 L/min). The difference between PEFR in girls and boys was significant. A positive correlation was found between PEFR and anthropometric variables, with highest correlation with height. For same height there was a significant difference in PEFR in boys and girls. Conclusion: The normal reference ranges for PEFR as per sex and height given in this study can serve as a standard, since there is a need to have regional values for PEFR in a country like India with considerable diversity.
