OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the quality of life related to health (QLRH) and self-esteem (SE) of adolescents with Diabetes Mellitus type 1 (DM1) and analyze the relations between these constructs in this population. METHODS: 124 adolescents with DM1, aged 12 to 18, answered the instruments validated for Brazil about Self-Esteem and Diabetes Quality of Life for Youths while they waited for their medical appointments. RESULTS: The adolescents evaluated their quality of life and self-esteem positively. The concepts of quality of life and self-esteem were positively related. CONCLUSIONS: The study participants' QLRH and SE were considered good, overall. The SE and QLRH concepts were related, i.e., the higher the self-esteem, the better the quality of life of adolescents with DM1.
Diabetes mellitus, tipo 1; Self concept; Quality of life; Adolescent
