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Snoring in Portuguese primary school children
A M Ferreira1, V Clemente, D Gozal
1Sleep Disorders Clinic, University Hospital of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
Pediatrics
|November 4, 2000
Summary
Loud snoring is common in Portuguese children and linked to sleep and behavioral issues. Early evaluation for loud snorers may help improve outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine
- Child Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Snoring is a prevalent symptom in childhood.
- Associations between snoring and various health and behavioral outcomes require further investigation in diverse populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of snoring in Portuguese primary school children.
- To explore associations between snoring and sleep problems, medical conditions, school performance, and behavioral disturbances.
Main Methods:
- A validated questionnaire was administered to parents of 1381 children.
- Teacher-completed Rutter's Children's Behavior Questionnaire assessed behavioral disturbances.
- Data were analyzed for 976 children.
Main Results:
- Loud snoring (LSn) was reported in 8.6% of children.
- LSn was significantly associated with increased bedtime problems, parasomnias, daytime sleepiness, irritability, and behavioral disturbances.
- Children with LSn had a higher likelihood of recurrent medical problems, especially respiratory infections.
Conclusions:
- Snoring is a common issue in Portuguese children, frequently linked to behavioral and sleep disturbances.
- Early evaluation and intervention for children with loud snoring are recommended.
- Findings highlight the importance of addressing snoring in pediatric primary care.