To help raise awareness of cystic fibrosis and what life is like with the disease, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is encouraging people to share facts about the disease on social media during Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month.
Here are some important facts about cystic fibrosis to share on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram over the next few weeks:
What is cystic fibrosis?
- Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, life-threatening disease where a build-up of mucus affects the lungs and other organs, making it difficult to breathe and digest food.
- There are more than 30,000 people living with CF in the U.S., and approximately 70,000 worldwide.
Genetics and prevalence
- Both parents need to be carriers of the mutant cystic fibrosis gene for their child to develop the disease.
- There’s a one in four chance that a child will have CF if their parents are carriers.
- Three-quarters of CF cases are diagnosed before a child’s second birthday.
- Each year, around 1,000 people are diagnosed with cystic fibrosis in the U.S.
What to expect living with CF
- Each person with CF is different so no two cases are alike. However, all will need to undergo daily chest physio and take medications to help thin the mucus and aid digestion.
- Those living with CF need to be extra careful of germs because they are susceptible to dangerous lung infections.
- Most people with CF can lead normal, happy, active lives.
- People with CF can have children, but will often need to undergo fertility treatment.
How is cystic fibrosis treated?
- CF treatment consists of daily airway clearance to loosen mucus, inhaled treatments to thin mucus, antibiotics to clear infections, and pancreatic enzyme supplements to aid food digestion.
What is the life expectancy for CF patients?
- The life expectancy for someone living with cystic fibrosis in the U.S. is 42. This figure is increasing as new therapies and treatments are developed.
- People with cystic fibrosis need to eat more calories than other people because they are unable to get all the nutrients and calories from their food.
- Most people with cystic fibrosis can exercise and take part in physical activity and are encouraged to do so.
Cystic Fibrosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.