Knowledge and Self-Esteem of Individuals with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1)

Abstract

Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) is a progressive genetic disorder characterized by physical findings such as café-au-lait macules, Lisch nodules, and neurofibromas in addition to other medical complications. Learning and social problems are more prevalent among individuals affected with NF1. It has been reported that people with NF1 have lower self-esteem (SE) when compared to the general population. Additionally, a study published over 20 years ago found that overall knowledge of NF1 was lacking in individuals affected with the condition. The goals of our study were to evaluate NF1 knowledge in adolescents and adults with the condition, as well as to determine if there is a link between patient knowledge and SE. Furthermore, we explored the impact of other factors, such as attendance at a NF1 support group and having a family history of NF1, on knowledge and SE. A survey comprised of knowledge-based questions and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale was distributed to individuals with NF1 through the Texas NF Foundation. Overall, the 49 respondents (13 to 73 years of age) had a mean knowledge score of 77.9 % correct answers. Consistent with previous studies, the SE of our study population was lower when compared to general population norms. Although no correlation between knowledge and SE was observed, SE scores were on average higher if a person reported the following: having friends with NF1 (p = 0.009); attending a NF1 support group (p = 0.006); receiving care at a NF clinic (p = 0.049); or having received genetic counseling (p = 0.008). Further research is needed to better understand the relationship between these factors and SE in the NF1 population.

Keywords: Coping; Education; Knowledge; Neurofibromatosis; Self-esteem.