About Cystic Fibrosis

Understanding the disease and the challenges faced by those living with CF.

What is Cystic Fibrosis?

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 an unusually thick, sticky mucus that:

  • Clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections
  • Obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food

Hope for the Future

In 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.

Symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis

People with CF can have a variety of symptoms, including:

  • Persistent coughing, at times with phlegm
  • Very salty tasting skin
  • Frequent lung infections
  • Wheezing or shortness of breath
  • Poor growth/weight gain in spite of a good appetite
  • Frequent greasy, bulky stools or difficulty in bowel movements

CF Statistics

30,000+
People in the U.S. living with CF
70,000
People worldwide with CF
1,000
New cases diagnosed each year
70%
Diagnosed by age two
45%+
Of CF patients are adults (18+)

Learn More

Visit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation for comprehensive information about CF, treatment options, and ongoing research.

Visit CFF.org

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