Abstract: Objective To investigate the sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP) of Chinese boys. Methods 299 healthy boys aged 5-12 years were measured with SNIP. Their height, weight, and age were recorded. Results The SNIP averaged (76.9±22.6) cmH2O, and was (59.1±14.2) cmH2O, (76.9±19.5) cmH2O, (85.3±23.5) cmH2O and (83.0±22.6) cmH2O in the boys of 5-6 years old, 7-8 years old, 9-10 years old and 11-12 years old, respectively. It was significantly different among boys of 5-6 years old, 7-8 years old and 9-10 years old (P<0.05), but no significant difference between 9-10 years old and 11-12 years old (P=0.55). Regression analysis indicated significant relations of SNIP with age, height, weight and Body Mass Index (P<0.01). Conclusion The SNIP of Chinese healthy boys are different from abroad. It is necessary to establish the Chinese children SNIP reference range.

Key words: sniff nasal inspiratory pressure, children, respiratory muscle strength, China