Cystic Fibrosis
Learn More at CFF.ORG
Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, genetic disease that affects the lungs, pancreas, and other organs.
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There are close to 40,000 children and adults living with cystic fibrosis in the United States and affects people of every racial and ethnic group.
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CF causes a thick, sticky mucus in the lungs, that causes clogs the airways and traps germs, like bacteria, leading to infections, inflammation, respiratory failure, and other complications. For this reason, avoiding germs is a top concern for people with CF.
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In the pancreas, the buildup of mucus prevents the release of digestive enzymes that help the body absorb food and key nutrients, resulting in malnutrition and poor growth. In the liver, the thick mucus can block the bile duct, causing liver disease.
The Outlook of CF
Tremendous advancements in specialized CF care have added years and improve the quality of the lives of people with cystic fibrosis. During the 1950s, a child with CF rarely lived long enough to attend elementary school. Today, many people with CF achieving their dreams of attending college, pursuing careers, getting married, and having kids.
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Although there has been significant progress in treating this disease, there is still no cure and too many lives are cut far too short.
2023 IMPACT REP0RT
Incredible progress has been made in our fight for a cure for cystic fibrosis. Click here to check out the
