Tatsuo Yagi Author

Research Article Open Access

Sleep Apnea and Neck Circumference in Japanese Rugby Union Athletes

Author(s):

Hiroshi Suzuki, Arisa Ebato, Yoshihiro Iwata, Akihiro Yasuda, Tatsuo Yagi, Hiroki Takeuchi, Osamu Komiyama and Chin Moi Chow

Objective: The body size of football players may potentially influence high-level performance. However, increased body mass may increase sleep apnea risks. This study investigated the severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and body composition among Japanese rugby union players.

Methods: Subjects were 52 Japanese male rugby union players. The team received routine dental support at the Nihon University School of Dentistry in Matsudo, Japan. Dental services included dental checkups and treatment, and provision of custom-made mouthguards. Outcome measures were the respiratory disturbance index (RDI) recorded from a sleep apnea test and body mass index (BMI), neck circumference (NC) measurements, and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). All playe... view more»

DOI: 10.4172/2325-9639.1000200

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