Prevalence of snoring in Taichung area: an epidemiological study.
BACKGROUND
Snoring is the cardinal symptom of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). To our knowledge, no epidemiological data of sleep-disordered breathing in Taiwan is reported in the literature. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of snoring in the area of Taichuing, Taiwan.


METHODS
Data were collected from a random sample of Taichung area residents listed in the Taichung Resident Telephone Directory. Questions were asked by telephone and the answers were recorded and analyzed.


RESULTS
Among the 1,252 people who were successfully interviewed, 606 were males and 646 were females. The overall prevalence of snoring was 46.8%, while habitual snorers accounted for 13.8%. The prevalence of snoring among males was higher than females (57% vs. 37%, p < 0.001). In addition, adults aged 40-59 years were more likely to snore (p < 0.001).


CONCLUSIONS
Snoring in the area of Taichung, Taiwan is more prevalent in middle-aged adults, especially men. How to ascertain those who have OSAS economically and efficiently requires further investigation.
Liu
Shih-An
SA
Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC. an1654@seed.net.tw
Liu
Chia-Yee
CY
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015995:Prevalence; D012913:Snoring / Q000453:epidemiology*; D013624:Taiwan / Q000453:epidemiology