Frequent snoring in teens is associated with heightened behavioral issues, particularly in those with obesity, according to a study published in JAMA Network Open. The cohort study examined data from 11,862 adolescents, aged 9-10 years at baseline, over a five-year period to assess links between snoring, cognitive performance, and problem behaviors.

Behavioral issues, measured by the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), were significantly associated with habitual snoring (≥3 nights/week). Adolescents with obesity who snored habitually demonstrated the highest CBCL Total Problems scores (β = 3.18; 95% CI, 2.59-3.77). In contrast, cognitive assessments conducted using the National Institutes of Health Toolbox revealed no significant differences across snoring frequencies, including tests for attention, memory, processing speed, and language.

The study also found a natural decline in the prevalence of habitual snoring, which decreased from 6.8% at baseline to 3.2% at year five. While behavioral concerns persisted among habitual snorers, overall CBCL scores improved over time across all groups.

The findings emphasize that the behavioral impact of snoring is more pronounced than cognitive effects, particularly in adolescents with obesity. Researchers used rigorous statistical models to account for confounding factors such as age, sex, race, family income, and testing format. The authors note the importance of addressing behavioral impacts when managing sleep-disordered breathing in adolescents.

Full disclosures can be found in the published study.