Associations between sleep disturbance, sleep-related impairment, and attention and learning disorders in youth with NF1

This study aims to address the knowledge gap regarding the prevalence and types of sleep disturbances and impairments in children with NF1 and their association with cognitive difficulties. An anonymous survey was conducted as part of a larger investigation into sleep disturbances and cognitive difficulties in NF1. The survey, distributed through the Children’s Tumor Foundation NF Registry, included PROMIS Sleep Disturbance and Sleep-Related Impairment questionnaires and the Child and Adolescent Sleep Checklist (CASC) and comorbidities that may impact sleep. Sleep disturbance interferes with the quality of sleep, while sleep impairment is the resultant functional consequences of poor sleep. Data was collected from caregivers of children with NF1. A total of 202 parents participated. Sleep disturbances were reported in 60.4% of children, and sleep impairment in 42.6%. Children with comorbid ADHD had significantly higher rates of sleep disturbance (F2,199 = 10.40, p < .001, Eta2 = 0.10) and impairment (F(2,199) = 6.01, p < .003, Eta2 = 0.06) than those without ADHD. No significant differences were found based on sex, anxiety, or depression. Learning disorders were significantly associated with sleep impairment (F(2, 199) = 3.68, p = <.03, Eta2 = 0.04) but not with sleep disturbances. This study highlights the high prevalence of sleep disturbances and impairments in children with NF1, particularly among those with reported ADHD. These findings underscore the need for regular screening and multidisciplinary management of sleep problems in this population. Future research should include comparison groups to better understand these trends.