What is CF?
What is cystic fibrosis?
Cystic fibrosis (CF) primarily affects the lungs and digestive system because of a malfunction in the exocrine system that’s responsible for producing saliva, sweat, tears and mucus. Babies born today with CF can expect to live well into adulthood. There is currently no cure, but advances in treatment and care are helping people better manage their CF.
CF is the most common, life-limiting genetic condition affecting Australians. Over 3,600 people are living with CF in Australia and 1 in 25 people carry the recessive CF gene change.
People with CF develop an abnormal amount of excessively thick and sticky mucus within the lungs, airways and the digestive system. This causes impairment of the digestive functions of the pancreas and traps bacteria in the lungs resulting in recurrent infections, leading to irreversible damage.
From birth, a person with CF undergoes constant medical treatments and physiotherapy.
Diagnosis
CF can be diagnosed with a routine test at birth, however, further tests may also be needed.
Treatment
Treatment differs between each person, but can include medication, physiotherapy.
Genetic Testing
Testing can help find out if there is a chance of having a child with a genetic condition
For more information, or to learn more regarding health specific questions, please contact your doctor.