Cystic+Fibrosis

Description: Cystic fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States (70,000 worldwide). A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that:
 * clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections; and
 * obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food.[[image:CF.jpg width="225" height="185"]]

People with CF can have a variety of symptoms, including:
 * very salty-tasting skin;
 * persistent coughing, at times with phlegm;
 * frequent lung infections;
 * wheezing or shortness of breath;
 * poor growth/weight gain in spite of a good appetite; and
 * frequent greasy, bulky stools or difficulty in bowel movements.

Chromosome location: - Lung - Kidney

Treatment: The main treatments for lung problems in people who have CF are chest physical therapy (CPT), exercise, and medicines. Cystic fibrosis (CF) has no cure. However, treatments have greatly improved in recent years. The goals of CF treatment are to: Depending on how severe the disease is, you or your child may be treated in a hospital If you or your child has CF, you may be treated by a CF specialist. This is a doctor who is familiar with the complex nature of CF. Often, a CF specialist works with a medical team of nurses, physical therapists, dietitians, and social workers. CF specialists often are located at major medical centers.
 * Prevent and control lung infections
 * Loosen and remove thick, sticky mucus from the lungs
 * Prevent or treat blockages in the intestines
 * Provide enough nutrition
 * Prevent dehydration (a condition in which the body doesn't have enough fluids)

Life Expectancy: I n the 1950s, few children with cystic fibrosis lived to attend elementary school. Today, advances in research and medical treatments have further enhanced and extended life for children and adults with CF. __**Many people with the disease can now expect to live into their 30s, 40s and beyond.**__

Support Organizations: Since 1955, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has been the driving force behind the pursuit of a cure. Thanks to the dedication and financial backing of their supporters--patients, families and friends, clinicians, researchers, volunteers, individual donors, corporations and staff, they are making a difference.


 * (Ryan Wichtendahl) **