Habitual Snoring, Intermittent Hypoxia, and Impaired Behavior in Primary School Children

The research aimed to assess the relationship between habitual snoring (HS) in children, impaired behavior, and academic performance. The study involved 1144 children and utilized parental questionnaires, pulse oximetry to measure intermittent hypoxia, and school reports to determine academic performance. The findings revealed significant associations between HS and hyperactive, inattentive behavior, daytime tiredness, and sleepiness. These associations remained significant independently of intermittent hypoxia. HS was also linked to behavioral issues such as bad conduct, emotional symptoms, and peer problems. Follow-up results indicated that improved behavior was observed when HS ceased, suggesting that impaired behavior is closely tied to HS and potentially reversible. The study aimed to establish causal links between SDB and its effects on behavior and academic performance.

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