Question

What is the relationship between severe and FEV1 when FEV1 is 30?

1) Severe and FEV1 are positively correlated
2) Severe and FEV1 are negatively correlated
3) Severe has no effect on FEV1
4) Cannot determine the relationship based on the given information

Answer 1

The relationship between severe lung impairment and FEV1 is negatively correlated since a lower FEV1 value denotes more significant lung dysfunction, often assessed through the FEV1/FVC ratio in spirometry tests.

Step-by-step explanation:

The relationship between severe lung impairment and FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in one second) when FEV1 is 30 is likely a negative correlation. As FEV1 is an indicator of lung function, a lower FEV1 value suggests a higher severity of lung disease. FEV1 is one of the key metrics measured during a spirometry test which also includes FVC (Forced Vital Capacity). The FEV1/FVC ratio can help differentiate between restrictive and obstructive lung diseases. For example, in obstructive conditions like COPD or asthma, the FEV1/FVC ratio would be low due to airway resistance and difficulty in expelling air. Conversely, restrictive lung diseases like fibrosis result in a high FEV1/FVC ratio due to lung stiffness, although both types lead to difficulty in breathing.