Risk and Protective Factors for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome Throughout Lifespan: From Pregnancy to Adolescence

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) in children is indeed a significant and often underdiagnosed condition. The risk factors for OSAS vary across different stages of life. Objectives: Identifying risk factors early can help in taking preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of developing OSAS, and different life stages may require different interventions. Results: During pregnancy, maternal factors such as obesity, smoking, and genetic predispositions can increase the risk of OSAS, while breastfeeding serves as a protective factor. For children aged 2 to 12, adenotonsillar hypertrophy is the primary cause of airway narrowing, with other contributing factors including obesity, craniofacial abnormalities, and increased nasal resistance. In adolescence, obesity and craniofacial abnormalities remain the main risk factors. Conclusions: By reviewing and understanding these risk factors, healthcare providers can offer more personalized and effective care, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for individuals at all stages of life.