Restless Legs Syndrome Epidemiology Forecast 2025-2034

In The United States, around 10% of the population is affected by restless legs syndrome, with a higher prevalence among women. Middle-aged individuals tend to experience more severe symptoms. Additionally, it is estimated that about 2% of school-aged children also suffer from restless legs syndrome.

Restless Legs Syndrome Epidemiology Forecast Report Coverage

The Restless Legs Syndrome Epidemiology Forecast Report 2025-2034 delivers a comprehensive analysis of the condition’s prevalence and associated demographic factors. It projects future incidence and prevalence trends across diverse population groups, considering key variables such as age, gender, and restless legs syndrome type. The report highlights changes in prevalence over time and offers data-driven forecasts based on influencing factors. Additionally, it provides an in-depth overview of the disease, along with historical and projected epidemiological data for eight key markets:

The United States, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Japan, and India.

Restless Legs Syndrome:

Disease Overview

Restless legs syndrome is a neurological disorder characterised by an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. Symptoms typically occur during periods of inactivity, especially at night, and can disrupt sleep. The exact cause is unclear, but genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors may contribute. It is more common in women and often worsens with age. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, medications, and addressing underlying conditions. The condition can significantly impact daily life and sleep quality.

Epidemiology Overview

The epidemiology section of restless legs syndrome provides insights into the patient population, spanning from historical data to current trends, as well as future projections for the eight major markets. The Research offers an analysis of both current and anticipated trends for the condition, based on various studies. The report also explores the diagnosed patient pool and associated trends, categorising data by factors such as age and patient groups.

• It is estimated that 5% to 15% of the population may experience restless legs syndrome, with familial cases typically emerging before the age of 45.
• The condition is more commonly reported among women and white individuals, with the risk increasing with age.
• Studies indicate that restless legs syndrome is uncommon in children, affecting approximately 2% of school-aged children.
• The condition impacts 11% to 29% of pregnant women, occurring three times more frequently than in nonpregnant women, with the highest prevalence during the third trimester of pregnancy.

Restless Legs Syndrome:

Treatment Overview

• Lifestyle Modifications

The first approach in managing restless legs syndrome involves lifestyle changes aimed at alleviating symptoms. Regular exercise, such as walking or stretching, can help reduce discomfort. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and practising good sleep hygiene are also essential for managing the condition. Avoiding stimulants like caffeine and nicotine, particularly in the evening, may improve symptoms. Additionally, ensuring a comfortable sleeping environment can further aid in reducing the severity of restless legs during nighttime, helping to improve overall quality of sleep.

• Iron Supplements

Iron deficiency has been associated with restless legs syndrome, and iron supplementation can be beneficial in cases where a deficiency is present. Studies show that replenishing iron levels may help alleviate symptoms, especially in individuals with low serum ferritin levels. Iron supplements should be taken under medical supervision, as excessive iron intake can lead to side effects. This treatment is particularly useful for those with identified iron deficiencies or those whose condition worsens in response to low iron levels.

• Medications (Dopamine Agonists)

Dopamine agonists, such as pramipexole and ropinirole, are commonly prescribed for moderate to severe cases of restless legs syndrome. These medications work by stimulating dopamine receptors in the brain, which can help regulate motor control and reduce the urge to move the legs. Although these medications are generally effective, they may cause side effects like nausea, dizziness, or sleep disturbances. Long-term use of dopamine agonists may also lead to a phenomenon known as augmentation, where symptoms worsen with continued use.

• Anticonvulsants

Anticonvulsant medications, such as gabapentin and pregabalin, are often used to treat restless legs syndrome. when other treatments are insufficient. These drugs work by calming the nervous system and reducing abnormal sensations in the legs. Anticonvulsants can be particularly helpful in relieving the discomfort and pain associated with the condition. However, they may cause side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, and weight gain. The effectiveness of anticonvulsants may vary, and treatment should be tailored to the individual’s needs and response to the medication.

• Opioids

In severe cases of restless legs syndrome, particularly when other treatments have proven ineffective, opioids may be prescribed as a last resort. Medications such as tramadol or low-dose oxycodone are sometimes used to manage the most intense symptoms. While opioids can provide significant relief, they carry a high risk of dependency and side effects, including sedation and constipation. As a result, they are typically prescribed only for short-term use or when other treatment options have failed. Regular monitoring and careful management are essential when using opioids for restless legs syndrome.

Restless Legs Syndrome:

Burden Analysis

Restless legs syndrome imposes a significant burden on individuals, severely affecting quality of life. The condition often disrupts sleep, leading to chronic fatigue, daytime drowsiness, and reduced productivity. The constant urge to move the legs can cause discomfort and irritation, impacting daily activities and social interactions. As a result, individuals may experience emotional distress, anxiety, and depression. The unpredictable nature of the condition can interfere with work, relationships, and overall well-being. Long-term sufferers may face difficulties in maintaining a normal routine, highlighting the need for effective management to alleviate symptoms and improve life quality.

Key Epidemiology Trends

Restless legs syndrome is a neurological disorder characterised by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. Recent epidemiological studies have provided valuable insights into the prevalence, demographics, and associated factors of this condition. Below are five notable trends:

1. Global Prevalence Variations

The prevalence of Restless Legs Syndrome varies significantly across different regions. Studies indicate that Western countries report higher prevalence rates compared to Asian and South American populations. This disparity may be attributed to cultural, environmental, and genetic factors influencing the expression of the syndrome.

2. Age and Gender Demographics

Restless Legs Syndrome affects individuals across all age groups, from childhood to older adulthood. However, studies have found that the prevalence increases with age, with a higher occurrence in females. For instance, in European and North American countries, the prevalence of Restless Legs Syndrome increases with age, and women are more frequently affected than men.

3. Association with Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a significant risk factor for developing Restless Legs Syndrome. Approximately 11% to 29% of pregnant women are affected, with symptoms often intensifying during the third trimester. While symptoms typically resolve postpartum, studies suggest that women who experience Restless Legs Syndrome during pregnancy have a higher likelihood of developing chronic Restless Legs Syndrome later in life.

4. Impact of Comorbid Conditions

The presence of certain medical conditions, such as iron deficiency, end-stage renal disease, diabetes mellitus, and rheumatic diseases, has been linked to an increased risk of developing Restless Legs Syndrome. These associations highlight the importance of comprehensive health assessments in individuals presenting with Restless Legs Syndrome symptoms.

5. Underdiagnosis and Misdiagnosis

Despite its prevalence, Restless Legs Syndrome is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Many individuals attribute their symptoms to other conditions or fail to seek medical advice, leading to a lack of appropriate management. Enhanced awareness and education among both healthcare providers and the public are crucial to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes.

Analysis By Region

The epidemiology of restless legs syndrome varies across countries and regions due to differences in healthcare infrastructure, socioeconomic factors, cultural attitudes towards pain, and access to pain management therapies. Understanding these variations is essential for developing targeted interventions and improving patient outcomes.

Key regions include:

• The United States
• Germany
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• The United Kingdom
• Japan
• India

These regions exhibit distinct epidemiological trends, reflecting the unique challenges and opportunities within their healthcare systems.

The epidemiology of restless legs syndrome differs considerably across countries, influenced by factors such as genetics, diet, lifestyle, healthcare access, environmental elements (like pollution or stress), and socioeconomic conditions (including income and work-related stress). In The United States, approximately 7% to 10% of the population is affected by restless legs syndrome, with around 2% to 3% experiencing moderate to severe symptoms.

Key Questions Answered

• How does the social determinants of health, such as education and employment, impact the prevalence of chronic diseases in different populations?
• In what ways can genetic factors contribute to the global variations in the incidence of non-communicable diseases?
• What are the long-term effects of climate change on the spread of infectious diseases, particularly vector-borne ones?
• How do changes in healthcare policies and access to healthcare influence the epidemiological trends of preventable diseases?
• What role does urbanisation play in the rise of chronic conditions, such as obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory disorders?
• How can digital health tools be used to improve the accuracy of disease surveillance and data collection in underrepresented populations?
• What are the key environmental factors contributing to the rise in allergic diseases, such as asthma, in urban populations?
• How does migration and population displacement affect the spread of infectious diseases in refugee camps or migrant communities?
• What is the impact of ageing populations on the burden of non-communicable diseases like diabetes and dementia in high-income countries?
• How does the COVID-19 pandemic affect the long-term epidemiological trends for non-communicable diseases and mental health disorders?

Scope of the Report

• The report covers a detailed analysis of signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment options, and classification/types of restless legs syndrome based on several factors.
• The restless legs syndrome epidemiology forecast report covers data for the eight major markets (the US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, Japan, and India)
• The report helps to identify the patient population, the unmet needs of restless legs syndrome are highlighted along with an assessment of the disease's risk and burden.