Which age group is most commonly affected by restless legs syndrome (RLS)?

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, typically due to uncomfortable sensations. The prevalence of RLS is notably higher among middle-aged and older adults compared to younger populations. Research indicates that the condition frequently manifests in individuals over the age of 40, and its occurrence continues to increase with age. This age group is more likely to experience the specific symptoms associated with RLS and often has underlying health conditions that may contribute to the syndrome.

In contrast, the other age groups either have a lower prevalence of RLS or are less commonly reported in research studies. For example, while children can potentially experience RLS, this is comparatively rare. Young adults are also less affected than the middle-aged and older demographic. Furthermore, stating that all age groups are equally affected overlooks the significant age-related trends observed in clinical studies, which emphasize the higher risk in the older population.