RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 The Global Lung Function Initiative: dispelling some myths of lung function test interpretation JF Breathe JO Breathe FD European Respiratory Society SP 462 OP 474 DO 10.1183/20734735.012113 VO 9 IS 6 A1 Sanja Stanojevic A1 Philip Quanjer A1 Martin R. Miller A1 Janet Stocks YR 2013 UL http://breathe.ersjournals.com/content/9/6/462.abstract AB Educational Aims To summarise limitations and implications associated with using outdated spirometry reference equations to interpret lung function. To describe the Quanjer et al., 2012 “Global Lung Function Initiative” (GLI) spirometry equations and the advantages of using these in both clinical practice and research studies. To discuss the necessary steps and challenges when switching to the GLI, including adjustment for ethnicity, re-calculation of previous results for accurate trend reports and education of both patients and professionals. Summary Lung function results can help with establishing a diagnosis, with assessment of treatment effects and with making a prognosis. However, arbitrary differences in the way lung function is expressed and interpreted may result in mismanagement of patients as well as hindering our understanding of the global burden of lung disease. In this article, we summarise the Global Lung Function Initiative spirometry reference equations and dispel some common myths related to the use and interpretation of spirometry results.