Among all genetic disorders, cystic fibrosis (CF) is one of the more common. This potentially fatal illness affects about 30,000 individuals in the United States, and approximately 3,000 individuals in Canada. Around 1,000 people are diagnosed with CF every year.
Cystic Fybrosis mainly affects the respiratory system and the digestive system. A defective gene causes the body to produce thick, sticky mucus that builds and clogs up important organs in the body, particularly the lungs and the pancreas. Mucus builds up in and around the lungs and causes infectious bacteria to multiply, leading to inflammation and lung damage. When mucus builds up around the digestive system, enzymes are prevented from entering the digestive system and serious problems develop.
Causes and symptoms of cystic fibrosis
CF is a hereditary, genetic disease. The only way to get it is to have both parents test positive for the defective gene. When this happens, the child will have a 25% chance of inheriting both genes and be diagnosed with cystic fibrosis.
Most children with cystic fibrosis are usually diagnosed at age 2. Genetic tests are usually conducted, but most CF patients have the following symptoms:
Lack of appetite
Persistent lung infections like bronchitis and bronchopneumonia
Persistent coughing and shortness of breath
Nasal polyps
Poor growth and weight gain
Greasy stools
Very salty-tasting skin
Treatment for cystic fibrosis
There is no known cure for cystic fibrosis. Advancements in medical research and genetic research have raised the average life expectancy of a CF patient well into his or her mid-30s. A CF patient needs certain medications and supplements to live a more manageable life, like anti-inflammatories, bronchodilators for easier breathing, antibiotics, mucus thinners, and pancreatic enzyme supplements.
Awareness of cystic fibrosis has grown in recent years. Philanthropists and cause-oriented groups are pouring money into research for a cure for cystic fibrosis. Sufferers of cystic fibrosis, like Bob Flanagan, Bill Williams, and Laura Rothenberg have all written memoirs on their lives with cystic fibrosis before they died.