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

ObjectiveThis study assessed the prevalence and severity of restless leg syndrome (RLS) among patients attending primary health care (PHC) facilities.MethodsWe 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.ResultsThe 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.ConclusionRestless 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.