Understanding dynamics of respiration amongst sexes: who breathe more efficiently?

IntroductionRespiration is a complex phenomenon requiring diaphragm, inter-costal muscles and other supporting structures. Contemplating the anatomical & physiological differences between males and females, it is essential to know how the respiratory system works in both of them. No such other study has been conducted in an Indian setup, which guided us to take up this topic. MethodologyTotal of N= 216 (Males 63, Females- 153) student were enrolled. All the participants were between the age of 17-19. Their data of Tidal volume, inspiratory reserve volume, expiratory reserve volume, maximum expiratory pressure and their vital capacity both sitting and standing were gathered and analysee. ResultsTidal volume was in males 553{+/-}56 ml and 666{+/-}60 in females(p-value = 0.031). IRV was in males 2103{+/-}139 ml and 1717{+/-}99 in females(p-value>0.0001). ERV was in males 1638{+/-}113 ml and 1323{+/-}65 in females (p-value>0.0001). VC Standing was in males 3947{+/-}155 ml and 3278{+/-}105 in females(p-value>0.0001). VC sitting was in males 3492{+/-}151 ml and 2743{+/-}107 in females(pvalue>0.0001). MEP was in males 90{+/-}8 mmHg and 64{+/-}6 mmHg in females(p-value>0.0001). Range of Pearson correlation coefficient for all=(+0.2)-(-0.2). ConclusionTidal volume was found to be higher in females than in males. Vital capacity was higher in males than in females by 700 ml in both position and vital capacity was higher by 500ml in standing than in sitting in both males and females. Body mass index weakly correlatable positively or negatively with all parameters. MEP was found to be higher in males but was weakly correlated negatively with BMI.