Background: Maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximum expiratory pressure (MEP) and maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV) measurements assist in determining the respiratory muscle strength and endurance. These determinants of respiratory muscles vary significantly by age, gender, height, and ethnic origin. Normative values for maximum respiratory pressures (MRPs) and MVV would aid in evaluating respiratory muscle function in athletes, estimating performance, and assisting in rehabilitation. In addition, the reference values may aid in determining the efficacy of therapeutic interventions in young people with chronic respiratory diseases. The purpose of this study was to see how respiratory muscle strength indices correlated with anthropometric and physical activity characteristics in young Arabs. Methodology:The study included 80 male volunteers and 85 female volunteers ranging in age from 18 to 30 years. MicroRPM was used to measure MIP and MEP, and pulmonary function test data, including MVV values, were recorded. All subjects completed the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) and anthropometric measurements. Unpaired t-tests or Mann-Whitney U-tests were used to determine male-female differences. Using the Pearson correlation coefficient and Spearman Rho correlation coefficient tests, MIP and MEP values were correlated with body composition and physical activity. Using stepwise multiple linear regression analysis, the relationships between respiratory function (MVV, MIP, and MEP) and PFT values (FVC, FEV1, and FEV1/FVC), physical activity, and sedentary behavior were investigated. Results: MIP, MEP, and MVV values were significantly lower in females than in males. MIP, MEP, and MVV values had a moderate correlation with forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 second, and height, but not with weight, BMI, or GPAQ. Age, gender, and body mass index were found to be significant predictors of maximal respiratory pressures in a young Arab population. Conclusion: Maximum respiratory pressures and maximal voluntary ventilation were significantly lower in young Arabs than in other ethnic groups; these values were influenced by gender and height but not by levels of physical activity.

Background: Prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is alarmingly increasing along with a rise in population especially in rural India. The objectives of this study are to find out prevalence as well as awareness of NCDs among the rural populations.Methods: This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in six rural area of Panvel Taluka. One –stage cluster sampling technique was used to recruit participants from each cluster. WHO STEPS questionnaire tool (STEP I and II) was used to measure NCDs risk factors. Face validated pre-designed questionnaire was used to assess participant’s awareness, attitude, and behavior towards NCDs. The target population was classified into different age groups and gender. Data were analyzed using SPSS Software and a descriptive statistics were applied.Results: A total of 483 males and 417 females participated in this study. Among males, 34.8% consumed smoked tobacco whereas 21.8% of females consumed smokeless tobacco. Only 9.32% of male participants were reported as current alcohol drinkers. Both the genders did not meet the recommended amount of fruit consumption. Insufficient physical activity amongst males was 45.21% and females 60.49%. Based on BMI categories 19.04% males were overweight and 27.12% obese and in females 23.02% and 21.34% respectively. Risk of high waist circumference and diabetes was demonstrated more by males whereas females subjected to raised blood pressure. Awareness of NCDs among total subjects found as low as 28%.Conclusions: Awareness about NCDs is alarmingly low among the rural population thus corresponding to an increased prevalence of risk factors.