High prevalence of obstructive pulmonary function tests in young adults in Germany

Background: Current studies showed a high prevalence of COPD in Germany in people over 40 years. In contrast, the prevalence of obstructive pulmonary diseases in adults below 40 years of age is not well documented. Aim: The LufuMobile is a mobile lung function laboratory with two units (Geraterm, Germany). From 2011 until July 2013, measurements were performed at 71 locations throughout Germany by experienced lung function staff. The aim is to determine the national prevalence of obstructive pulmonary function tests (FEV1/FVC Results: Until now 6020 subjects took part (age (mean) 59.7 yrs, range 18-96; 50.8% female). In individuals with an empty history of any kind of lung diseases (n=5166), obstructive pulmonary function tests were observed in 19.8%. The rate was age-depended (14.3% in people below 30 years, 13.4% (30- Conclusion: At least one out of ten adults below 40 years of age without known lung disease displays an obstructive pulmonary function test. Early onset of smoking (before 20 yrs of age) contributes significantly to more rapid lung function decline compared to late onset smokers.