[Association Between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Behavioral Problems in Children]
View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) exhibit more behavioral problems. The severity of OSA, measured by the obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (OAHI), is a risk factor for these issues, particularly in girls.
Area Of Science
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine
- Child Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent condition in children.
- Behavioral problems are common in pediatric populations.
- The link between OSA and behavioral issues requires further investigation.
Purpose Of The Study
- To investigate the impact of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) on children's behavioral problems.
- To determine the association between OSA severity and behavioral issues.
Main Methods
- 100 children diagnosed with OSA (case group) and 100 healthy children (control group) aged 4-12 years were studied.
- Behavioral problems were assessed using the Achenbach Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL).
- Polysomnography data, including the obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (OAHI), were collected and analyzed using regression models.
Main Results
- Children with OSA showed significantly higher total behavioral problem scores compared to controls (24.60 vs. 8.85, P < 0.001).
- OSA was positively associated with overall behavioral problems and specific dimensions.
- The obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (OAHI) was identified as a risk factor for behavioral problems in children with OSA (OR = 1.17).
Conclusions
- Children diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are at increased risk for behavioral problems.
- The obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (OAHI) is a significant risk factor for behavioral problems in children with OSA.
- Sex may moderate the association, with a potentially stronger effect of OAHI on behavioral problems observed in girls.
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