Prevalence of Restless Legs Syndrome and Associated Factors in Nurses: A Multicenter Study in İstanbul (Türkiye)

Aim: Restless legs syndrome (RLS) primarily occurs in the evenings and is characterized by uncomfortable sensations such as numbness, tingling, burning, or pain that compel leg movement.This study aimed to determine the prevalence of RLS among hospital-based nurses and to explore its associations with health issues, symptoms, and quality of life. Materials and Methods:This observational study included both retrospective and cross-sectional components and evaluated nurses aged 18-65 years working at two tertiary hospitals (University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Bakırköy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital) between May 1, 2024, and February 1, 2025.A total of 488 participants were assessed, of whom 233 were diagnosed with RLS.Results: RLS was diagnosed in 233 participants, with a prevalence of 47.7%.Patients in the severe group had a higher prevalence of doctor visits compared to other groups (p<0.003).Thyroid-stimulating hormone levels differed significantly according to disease severity (p-value).Older age at the onset was found to be a risk factor that decreases the severity of the disease.Lack of a family history of the disease was correlated with reduced disease severity.There was a difference between age at disease onset and having a chronic disease.Having a chronic disease increased the age at disease onset by 5.4 (confidence interval: 3.0-7.8)units.The age at the onset of the disease was older in patients who were non-alcohol users.Conclusion: Certain factors, including age at disease onset, thyroid dysfunction, family history, and alcohol use, were found to influence the severity and onset of the disease.Patients in the severe group visit doctors more often than those in the mild or moderate groups.This may indicate that the severity of RLS leads to more frequent medical interventions or concerns.