EPIDEMIOLOGY OF RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME IN YOUNG ADULTS: A UNIVERSITY-BASED STUDY

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by unpleasant sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move them (Gupta et al., 2014). It is often associated with sleep disturbances, fatigue, and impaired quality of life. Despite its clinical importance, RLS epidemiology among university students in Mirpur remains underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiology and associated factors of RLS in university students.

METHOD:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from April to August 2025 involving 389 students aged 18–25 years. Data were collected using the International Restless Leg Syndrome Study Group (IRLSSG) criteria. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 27.
RESULTS:
The highest single response category across all domains was “never experienced symptoms” (n=170) in the circadian rhythm domain, indicating that a substantial proportion of respondents may not be affected by these symptom and symptoms frequency(n=153) occasionall which means that there is a Significant associations between RLS symptoms and associated factors such as symptom frequency, circadian rhythm, and relief methods (p<0.001).
CONCLUSION:

RLS symptoms show significant associations with symptom frequency, circadian rhythm, and relief methods. These findings emphasize the role of temporal patterns and coping strategies in guiding effective management of RLS