World Neurofibromatosis Awareness Day is a worldwide holiday to raise awareness about neurofibromatosis. It is a disease that is more common than we think. Today we’re learning more about it and the treatments available. It is celebrated every year on May 17.
History
World Neurofibromatosis Awareness Day is supported by the WHO and other medical organizations. At its core, neurofibromatosis (NF) is a condition that leads to the development of tumors in the NS.
In medicine, there are three main types of this disease. In N.F. 1, there is a clinical picture including skin blotchiness, formation of benign growths both on the skin surface and under it, appearance of freckles in the groin area or armpits. At the same time, deterioration of posture may often be fixed. In N.F. 2 the consequences are much more serious: deterioration of hearing, vision, loss of muscle tone, sagging of the skin on the facial area. There is also schwannomatosis – in this type of disease, painful areas appear on the body, and pain can also occur throughout the body.
Chemotherapy is often used for treatment. Drugs have not yet been developed, although work in this direction is being actively pursued. If the tumor is successfully removed, the person’s condition improves considerably.
Interesting facts
- All types of neurofibromatosis are caused by disorders in different genes.
- If the first two types of the disease are present, there is a 50% chance that they will be transmitted to children.
- If N.F. 1 in children, they should be examined annually to record the development of the disease in time to take appropriate action.
How to celebrate
Learn more details about neurofibromatosis this day. What can be caused by genetic disorders?
Tell about the holiday on social networks. Ask users if they or someone they know has the disease? If so, what measures are being taken?
When is World Neurofibromatosis Awareness Day celebrated in 2023?
World Neurofibromatosis Awareness Day is observed on May 17 each year.
Observations
| Weekday | Month | Day | Year |
| Wednesday | May | 17 | 2023 |
| Friday | May | 17 | 2024 |
| Saturday | May | 17 | 2025 |
