Prevalence of restless leg syndrome and associated comorbidities in a sub-saharan African general population: results from the Benin Society and Sleep (BeSAS) study.

Purpose: To assess the prevalence of Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and associated comorbidities among adults in rural and urban areas of Benin, a Sub-Saharan country, where limited data exists on its burden and clinical relevance.

Methods: A cross-sectional population-based study was conducted in Benin. RLS was identified using the standardized International Restless Legs Questionnaire. Demographic data and lifestyle data (alcohol consumption, smoking) were self-reported by participants, while precise anthropometric measurements (height, weight, BMI) and clinical parameters (blood pressure, blood glucose) were obtained using standardized protocols to assess nutritional status and detect hypertension and diabetes. Sleep quality was evaluated using three validated instruments: the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and the Insomnia Severity Index. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews conducted by trained personnel using KoBoToolbox software on digital tablets. Logistic regression models were used to determine the relationship between RLS and associated comorbidities.

Results: Among 2,909 participants (58.7% urban, mean age 44.7 years, 61.2% female), RLS prevalence was 5.0% [95% CI: 4.3-5.9], with higher rates in rural (9.4%) versus urban areas (1.9%). Prevalence increased with age (1.7% in 25-34 years to 12.5% in ≥ 65 years) and was higher in females (5.9%) than males (3.5%). RLS showed significant associations with hypertension (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.04-2.35, p = 0.03) and poor sleep quality (aOR = 3.07, 95% CI: 2.07-4.57, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: RLS shows notable prevalence in Benin with rural-urban disparities and significant associations with hypertension and poor sleep quality, highlighting the need for further research in sub-Saharan populations.