Caucasian women may suffer from RLS up to four times more than African-American women
June 24, 2017
Researchers also found that the overall prevalence of definite RLS was 23 percent, which is significantly more than many previous studies have reported at 3 to 10 percent. Dr. Alkhazna explains that this increased prevalence of RLS could be attributed to the specific study population.
"We believe our study results reflect at least our clinic's patient population. Because our patient population is multiracial and quite diverse, we expect our results would be similar in other large, urban centers with similar pools of patients," said Dr. Alkhazna. "However, as many diseases and medications can lead to the development of restless legs syndrome, there will likely be a difference between populations attending medical clinics as opposed to those who are well and healthy."
"Restless legs syndrome is a common sleep disorder that may not be easily recognized by patients and clinicians," said Kalpalatha Guntupalli, MD, FCCP, President of the American College of Chest Physicians. "Educating clinicians and patients about the signs and symptoms of RLS may raise awareness about this overlooked condition and lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment."
SOURCE American College of Chest Physicians