What is Cystic Fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease. It causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive system.

CF is passed down through families. You must inherit two copies of the faulty CF gene to have the disease.

About 30,000 children and adults in the United States have CF. Most are diagnosed by age 2.

Why Early Detection Matters

With CF, the earlier it's found, the sooner treatment can begin. This may help prevent or delay problems caused by the disease.

All babies in the U.S. are now tested for CF at birth. This is done with a blood test.

If the test is positive, doctors do more tests to be sure it is CF. These include a sweat test or genetic test.

How Cystic Fibrosis Affects the Body

CF mainly affects the lungs and digestive system, including the pancreas. The thick mucus clogs the lungs and leads to breathing problems and infections.

The mucus also blocks ducts in the pancreas. This stops digestive enzymes from reaching the intestines. Without these, the body can't absorb fats and proteins from food.

Symptoms often start in infancy and childhood. They include coughing, wheezing, frequent lung infections, poor growth, and greasy stools.

Treating Cystic Fibrosis

There is no cure for CF, but treatments can ease symptoms and reduce complications. The earlier treatment starts, the better.

Treatments may include:

• Airway clearance techniques to loosen and get rid of mucus in the lungs
• Inhaled medicines to open the airways, thin mucus, and fight lung infections
• Pancreatic enzyme supplement capsules to improve digestion and nutrition
• A high-calorie, high-fat diet
• Vitamins A, D, E, and K

New treatments called CFTR modulators can target the underlying defect in CF. These help the faulty protein work better. They are for some people with certain CF gene mutations.

Living with Cystic Fibrosis

Thanks to better treatments, people with CF are living longer than before. Many reach adulthood.

Having a child with CF can be challenging. But you're not alone. There are many resources and support groups to help.

Work closely with your child's CF care team. They can help you manage the disease and maintain the best quality of life.

The Future of Cystic Fibrosis Care

Research continues to improve CF treatments and search for a cure. Scientists are studying gene therapies and new drugs to fix the protein defect.

Clinical trials help test new treatments. People with CF may be able to join a trial to access these therapies.

Early diagnosis through newborn screening has made a big difference for people with CF. With continued advances, the future is brighter than ever.