Incidence - Sleep Disturbances

Women are more prone to sleep disturbances like Insomnia

The sleep disorder most frequently reported by women is Insomnia. As many as 80% of women report premenstrual symptoms including Insomnia. Menopausal and postmenopausal women are more likely to report frequent Insomnia (56%) than Premenopausal (49%) women.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA):

The prevalence of OSA has been estimated at 5.2% for women aged 40-64. Postmenopausal women are 2.6 times more likely than premenopausal women to have an Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) greater than 5.

Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD):

The prevalence of PLMD increases significantly with age. No gender difference exists in the prevalence of PLMD. Studies have estimated that as many as 45% of the independently living population older than 65 years show the minimal criteria for diagnosis of PLMD.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS):

The prevalence of RLS has been reported at 10% for those aged 30-79 years. No gender difference exists in the prevalence of RLS. Smoking, diabetes mellitus, pregnancy, greater age, and greater body mass index significantly increase the incidence of RLS.