Development and internal validation of an anatomical-anthropometric score for structural stratification associated with snoring

Introduction: Snoring is a prevalent symptom in adults and lacks simple structural tools for objective clinical stratification. Objective: To develop and internally validate a simple anatomical-anthropometric score to estimate the structural burden associated with snoring in adults. Method: Analytical study using open-access data from 343 adults. Snoring (yes/no) was assessed, and an anatomical-anthropometric score was constructed based on very high tongue position (FTP IV), tonsils ≥ 2, and increased abdominal circumference. The association was analyzed using logistic regression; discrimination was evaluated with the area under the curve (AUC) and internal validation by bootstrap (1,000 resamples), and compared with the Berlin questionnaire, Epworth scale, BMI, and neck circumference using the DeLong test. Results: The prevalence of snoring increased progressively with higher score levels. In the logistic model, score 1 showed a significant association, whereas score ≥ 2 demonstrated a stronger association. Discrimination was moderate and remained stable after internal validation. The Berlin questionnaire showed a higher AUC, with no significant differences compared to Epworth or BMI. The combined BMI + score model improved discrimination compared to BMI alone. Conclusions: The anatomical-anthropometric score showed a progressive association with snoring and moderate discriminative capacity, providing complementary value based on objective structural findings.