Examination of Risk for Sleep-Disordered Breathing Among College Football Players

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Abstract
Professional football linemen are at risk for sleep disordered breathing (SDB) compared to other types of athletes. It is currently unknown whether collegiate football linemen display a similar risk profile. 1) Determine for the first time whether collegiate football linemen show risk for SDB, and 2) Test the hypothesis that SDB risk is higher in collegiate football linemen compared to an athletic comparison group. Descriptive laboratory study. The Health Risk Assessment Laboratory. Male football linemen (n = 21) and track (n = 22) Division I athletes between the ages of 18 and 22. Participants completed the Multivariable Apnea Prediction (MAP) Index and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) surveys, validated measures of symptoms of sleep apnea and daytime sleepiness, respectively. Neck and waist circumferences, blood pressure, Mallampati Index (MMPI) and Tonsil Size were determined, followed by body composition assessment using DEXA. Scores from surveys, anthropometric data, MMPI and body composition. Survey data demonstrated a deficiency in sleep quality and efficiency, coinciding with increased self-reported symptoms of apnea (MAP index=0.79) in college linemen relative to track athletes. Neck circumference (45cm), waist circumference (107.07cm), body mass index (36.64kg/m2) and body fat % (30.19%), all of which exceeded the clinical predictors of risk for obstructive sleep apnea, were significantly greater in linemen compared to track athletes. MAP variables were significantly correlated with MMPI, neck circumference, body fat %, body mass index, and systolic blood pressure (r ≥ .31, p < 0.05), indicating that college football linemen are at increased risk for SDB. Risk factors for SDB recognized in professional football linemen are also present at the collegiate level. Screening may minimize present or future risk for SDB, as well as the downstream risk of SDB-associated metabolic and cardiovascular disease.

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