The prevalence of restless legs syndrome in adult Saudis attending primary health care

Abstract

Objective: This study assessed the prevalence and severity of restless leg syndrome (RLS) among patients attending primary health care (PHC) facilities.

Methods: We interviewed 1303 consecutive patients attending PHC face-to-face using the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group (IRLSSG) criteria. We assessed the severity of RLS using the IRLSSG severity scale for RLS.

Results: The prevalence of RLS in our sample was 5.2% and was highest among participants between 45 and 60 years of age. The overall prevalence was roughly equal between males and females; however, RLS was more prevalent in females older than 45 years compared to males in the same age group. Eight participants (11.8%) reported mild symptoms, 29 (42.6%) moderate, 29 (42.6%) severe, and 2 (2.9%) very severe. None of the participants had been diagnosed or treated for RLS.

Conclusion: Restless leg syndrome is common among Saudis (Arabs). Our study supports the findings of reports in other countries demonstrating that primary care physicians do not often recognize RLS.