Prevalence Rate of Restless Leg Syndrome among Healthcare Students of Karachi

Background: Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is an undiagnosed sensorimotor disorder that is accompanied by an unpleasant sensation in the lower limbs which cause an urge to move the leg for temporary relaxation. It causes symptoms such as insomnia, concentration and mood disturbance which affect the quality of life, job and academic performance. Objective: This study was proposed to find out the prevalence of RLS among healthcare undergraduate students with its primary complications. Method: This was a cross-sectional study, conducted in Healthcare Institutes of Karachi in July-19 to October-19. A questionnaire was given to 337 students, which was designed to diagnose RLS on the basis of criteria set by “International Restless Leg Syndrome Study Group”. The inclusion criteria were students aged between 18-25 years. Students having any neurological problem, hypertension, diabetes, pregnancy, musculoskeletal deformity or recent traumatic injuries were excluded from this study. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 22. Results: The median (IQR) age of students was 21 (20-22) years. Out of these 337 students 40(11.9%) were males and 297(88.1%) were females. Restless Leg syndrome was diagnosed in 120(35.6%) students in which 110(91.7%) were females and 10(8.3%) males. 116(34.4%) students experienced leg cramps, while RLS positive students 116(96.7%) did not seek any consultation to health care professional. Conclusion: This study concluded that there was a high prevalence of RLS among healthcare students yet remains undiagnosed. There should be more awareness programs regarding RLS to prevent its symptoms and to improve the quality of life.