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Restless Legs Syndrome affects an estimated 11.6% of Spain's population
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is estimated to affect approximately 11.6% of the population in Spain, with severe cases impacting between 2% and 3% of people. Neurologist Laura Lillo, a member of the Spanish Sleep Society, explains that RLS is a neurological disease that alters sensory-motor processing rather than being a secondary symptom of anxiety.
The disorder causes aberrant sensations in the legs during evening or nighttime rest, creating an urgent need to move the limbs to find relief. This inability to remain still can prevent sleep and interfere with daily activities such as dining or traveling. Furthermore, the condition can impact mental health, increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, and suicide. While the exact causes are only partially understood, there is a known genetic predisposition associated with certain genetic variants.