On 15 June 2021, the first phase of the Luxembourg National Sleep Study closed. During this first phase, more than 20,000 Luxembourg residents, aged 55-75, have filled in an online survey about their sleep quality and potential symptoms of REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), a sleeping problem associated with an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. We would like to thank all the participants who completed the online survey – your input is extremely valuable for the sleep and Parkinson’s disease research conducted in Luxembourg!

The study entered its second phase. After the study team analysed the online survey responses, they contacted the participants whose answers suggest a higher probability for RBD. These participants received a phone call to reconfirm the information provided in the online survey. Next, they will receive an easy at-home smell test along with a second questionnaire by post. At this stage, the fact that the participant are re-contacted does not mean that they are diagnosed with RBD.

The at-home smell test consists of a card with different smells with four choices each, which participants have to send back to the study team once completed. Based on the results, the team will evaluate the sense of smell and who qualifies to participate for further steps of our study. Participants will be informed about this decision by email or phone.

Participants can help us reach our research aims of

• better understanding the role of REM sleep behavior disorders in the early phases of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease.
• determining for the first time how many people in Luxembourg are affected by this sleep disorder.
• gaining insight into strategies for preventing neurodegenerative diseases.

Many thanks for your interest and support!