How common is the restless legs syndrome?

RLS has approximately the same prevalence (5% to 12%) as the influenza virus (8.8%).

Estimates suggest that 5% to 12% of adults worldwide experience some form of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). When RLS symptoms are defined as occurring at least twice a week with moderate-to-severe distress, the prevalence is lower (approximately 1.5% to 3%). The prevalence of RLS increases with age. Among those 65 and older, the prevalence can reach approximately 10% to 20%. RLS is approximately twice as common in women. Up to 15% – 26% of pregnant women experience RLS, typically peaking in the third trimester before resolving after delivery. Because RLS often runs in families 40% to 90% of those affected have a first-degree relative with the condition. RLS appears to be more common in North American and European populations than in Asian populations.

RLS can affect children. About 2% to 4% of children have clinically significant RLS.

Figure 1: Dialysis is strongly associated with RLS

The prevalence of RLS increases with certain medical conditions.

The link between kidney failure (particularly End-Stage Renal Disease [ESRD]) and RLS is incredibly strong. While RLS affects roughly 5% to 12% of the general population, it skyrockets to affect 20% to 40% of patients on long-term dialysis.
Research indicates that roughly 20% of people with spinal cord injury experience RLS.
Venous insufficiency (varicose veins) has reportedly been found to occur in 22% of RLS patients.
It is reported that about 20% of Parkinson's patients have RLS.
Studies show that anywhere from 5% to over 30% of people with peripheral neuropathy also suffer from RLS.
Studies consistently show that individuals with thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, experience RLS at a higher rate (14.3%).

Last reviewed: 05/09/2026