Numerous scientific studies have shown a correlation between neck size and obstructive sleep apnea. Men with neck large than 17 inches in diameter and women with necks larger than 15.5 inches are more likely to snore and have sleep apnea.

Anyone can have sleep apnea, but certain factors increase your chances of joining the ranks of the power snorers. Your risk is higher if you

Are male – Studies report sleep apnea in 9 to 24 percent of adult men as opposed to just 4 to 15 percent of adult women.

Are overweight – although all overweight people have a higher risk, particular the morbidly obese, people who have what is popularly know as the “pear shape” who deposit most of their fat around their middles, have a higher incidence of sleep apnea than people whose excess weight is more evenly distributed.

Are older than 40 – Studies show the prevalence of sleep apnea increases with age, although doctors believe that 2 to 4 percent of all children have the condition as well.

Are you a smoker – Studies suggesting that smoker with a two-pack a day habit run a 40 percent higher risk of developing sleep apnea than their non-smoking friends.

Have a history of chronic respiratory track problem – Conditions like asthma and chronic bronchitis put you at higher risk for the breathing disturbances associated with sleep apnea.

Have sleep apnea in your family – A family history of sleep apnea increase your risk two to four times.

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This entry was posted on Tuesday, April 17th, 2007 at 8:45 pm and is filed under Sleep Apnea. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.