Włodarska A, et al. - Researchers intended to determine if there is an association between exposure to tobacco smoke (passive smoking) and the development of respiratory disorders (ie, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome) in school-aged children (n = 160; aged 6 to 18 years) during sleep. The criteria for inclusion were exposed to tobacco smoke at home (90 patients). The control group comprised of children of school age who had no interaction at home with tobacco smoke (70 individuals). In children exposed to tobacco smoke, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome occurs more frequently. The following were observed more often in the group that was exposed to tobacco smoke: issues of concentration, tiredness/lethargy, irritability/hyperactivity. No statistically significant differences in nocturnal symptoms were noted: waking up, snoring and sleep apnoea.