ABSTRACT
Despite increased experience in diagnosing and treating the pediatric obstructive
sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), data are limited regarding its overall prevalence,
risk, and protective factors, natural course, and consequences. This chapter focuses
on the epidemiology of OSAS among children and adolescents (2-18 years of age).
The chapter sections will cover current knowledge pertaining to its overall
prevalence, distribution in various population subgroups, identified risk factors
and comorbidities associated with the disorder and, briefly, health outcomes
related to OSAS. The chapter closes with recommendations for future research
on the epidemiology of OSAS.
