Risk factors for habitual snoring among children aged 2-14 years in Chengdu, Sichuan

Purpose Habitual snoring (HS) is a prominent symptom of sleep-disordered breathing; thus, it is also important to consider the associated, multidimensional risk factors for HS in children. This study was aimed to identify risk factors for HS in children. Methods A cross-sectional survey was performed in Chengdu. Children aged 2-14 years from four districts were randomly chosen to participate. Questionnaires were voluntarily completed by the children's guardians. Results The survey included 926 boys and 622 girls, who were an average of 6.4 +3.0 years old. The sample included 463 habitual snorers (30.4%), 683 occasional snorers (44.8%), and 402 nonsnorers (26.4%). HS was found in 51.8% of children under 7 years old and 26.6% of children aged 7 years old or older. The prevalence of pregnancy complications was significantly lower in mothers who bore children with HS (p = .006). Among the HS group, 86.6% had an immediate family member who snores. Breastfeeding duration among the HS group was significantly less than among the occasional snoring and nonsnoring groups. History of symptoms of allergic rhinitis, rhinosinusitis, tonsillitis, and pneumonia/bronchitis in the past 6 months was associated with HS. Likewise, maternal smoking during pregnancy, maternal exposure to secondhand smoke during pregnancy, and child exposure to secondhand smoke were also associated with HS. Conclusion The prevalence of HS was higher in children under 7 years old. Having a mother with more education, a family history of snoring, a shorter period of breastfeeding, upper respiratory tract inflammation, and passive smoking are important risk factors for HS. Pregnancy complications may be associated with lower prevalence of snoring in childhood.