How common is essential tremor?
Essential tremor is very common.
Between 1 in 100 and 7 in 100 people have essential tremor.1 And it may be even more common than this. Some people have it but don't go and see their doctor.2
Essential tremor usually happens after the age of 60, but some people get it in their 20s.1 Men and women are equally likely to get it. But head tremor may be more common in women.3
Sources for the information on this page:
- Sullivan K, Hauser R, Zesiewicz T. Essential tremor. Epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment. The Neurologist. 2004; 10: 250-258. 15335442
- Smaga S. Tremor. American Family Physician. 2003; 68: 1545-1553. 14596441
- Hardesty DE, Maraganore DM, Matsumoto JY, et al. Increased risk of head tremor in women with essential tremor: longitudinal data from the Rochester Epidemiology Project. Movement Disorders. 2004; 19: 529-533. 15133816
This information was last updated in Jun 08, 2008
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This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved. |
