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Lung function tests are crucial for detecting and treating respiratory disorders that affect millions of Indians. The Forced Oscillation Technique (FOT), a contemporary, non-invasive approach for evaluating lung tests, is gaining popularity worldwide. However, misconceptions prevent its implementation in India. This article dispels prevalent fallacies regarding FOT, using Indian numbers and evidence.
Myth 1: FOT is only for severe respiratory diseases.
Fact: FOT detects early-stage respiratory disease even before symptoms appear. Unlike spirometry, which requires forceful exhalation, FOT evaluates lung resistance and reactance during normal breathing, making it suitable for early detection. Early identification with FOT may minimize morbidity in India, which accounts for 15% of the worldwide asthma burden (WHO) and affects 4-10% of persons over 30 (GBD Study 2019).
Myth 2: FOT is Uncomfortable or Invasive
Fact: FOT is painless and non-invasive. Patients breathe normally through a mouthpiece, making it appropriate for youngsters, the elderly, and people with physical disabilities. This is critical in India, where 32% of COPD cases are caused by biomass fuel exposure- ICMR, which disproportionately affects rural women. The ease of use of FOT can help these vulnerable groups comply more effectively.
Myth 3: Spirometry is More Accurate Than FOT
Fact: FOT is better than spirometry by giving unique data on small airway dysfunction, which is often missed by spirometry. A 2020 study published in the Indian Journal of Chest Diseases indicated that FOT was successful in identifying asthma-COPD overlap, which is an increasing concern in India’s polluted cities. While spirometry remains the gold standard, FOT improves diagnosis accuracy, particularly in complex patients.
Myth 4: FOT is Not Available in India
Fact: FOT is becoming more widely available in India, regardless of its underutilization. Leading institutes, such as AIIMS Delhi and PGI Chandigarh, use FOT for research and clinical practice. Private hospitals in major cities such as Mumbai and Bengaluru are also using the technology. However, awareness remains low, with only 12% of Indian pulmonologists frequently using FOT (2021 Noida Respiratory Survey).
Myth 5: FOT is Only Suitable for Adults
Fact: FOT’s low effort requirements make it suited for pediatric groups. India, with 3 crore asthmatic children –WHO, stands to profit greatly. A 2022 study at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi found that FOT can diagnose childhood asthma with 89% accuracy, minimizing the need for intrusive procedures.
