Spirometry is a common pulmonary function test that measures how much air a person can inhale and exhale and how quickly they can move air out of the lungs. Key measurements include forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), along with the FEV1/FVC ratio. Spirometry helps diagnose and monitor conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and restrictive lung disease. Results are compared to predicted normal values based on age, sex, height, and ethnicity. For life and disability insurance underwriting, spirometry provides objective data on lung function and the severity of respiratory impairment.

Underwriters request spirometry or full pulmonary function test reports when applicants disclose significant respiratory conditions or smoking histories. They review FEV1 percent predicted, FEV1/FVC ratios, and response to bronchodilators to gauge disease severity and stability. Mild abnormalities with good control may still qualify for standard or mildly rated offers, while severe COPD patterns often lead to heavy ratings or declines. Advisors can improve underwriting outcomes by obtaining recent spirometry results and clarifying ongoing treatment and smoking status. Understanding spirometry helps advisors translate technical pulmonary data into practical expectations about insurability, ratings, and carrier appetite for respiratory risks.