Understanding Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome and Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Children

In the field of pediatric health, the increasing prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents has emerged as a major public health concern over recent decades. Data show that almost 18% of children are affected by obesity, defined according to the CDC as a BMI ≥ 95th percentile. While the consequences of severe obesity, including type-2 diabetes and heart disease, are extensively discussed, the impact of obesity on sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea and obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) is often overlooked. Despite profound cardiopulmonary implications, these sleep-related breathing disorders remain less recognized comorbidities in pediatric obesity.

This Research Topic aims to elucidate the intricate links between pediatric obesity and sleep disorders, with a specific focus on obstructive sleep apnea and OHS. By addressing these underexplored areas, we seek to enhance understanding and improve management of these conditions. Key questions to be explored include the prevalence of these disorders in obese children, their impact on cardiopulmonary health, and the effectiveness of different therapeutic interventions. Moreover, hypotheses regarding potential interventions and preventative strategies will be tested to provide a comprehensive overview of possible solutions in tackling these challenges.

To gather further insights in the complex relationship between childhood obesity and sleep disorders, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Epidemiology and prevalence rates of sleep apnea and OHS in obese children.

• Mechanistic insights into how obesity predisposes children to sleep-related breathing disorders.

• Long-term cardiopulmonary complications due to untreated sleep disorders in pediatric obesity.

• Diagnostic challenges and novel diagnostic methodologies for apnea and hypoventilation syndrome.

• Development and efficacy of intervention strategies, including lifestyle modifications or medical treatments.

In addition to original research articles, we welcome reviews, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, case studies, and clinical trials that contribute to this Research Topic.