What is CF?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a fatal inherited disease, affecting mainly the lungs and digestive system. In the lungs, where the effects of the disease are most devastating, CF causes thick, sticky mucus to clog the small bronchial tubes, making it difficult to breath. This mucus also makes it difficult to clear bacteria and leads to cycles of infection and inflammation which damage the delicate lining of the lungs.

Mucus also blocks the tiny ducts of the pancreas, preventing enzymes from reaching the intestines to digest food. As a result, children and adults with CF must consume a large number of artificial enzymes (up to 20 pills a day) with every meal and snack to help break down and absorb adequate nutrition from food. They must also undergo a demanding daily routine of physical therapy designed to keep the lungs free of congestion and infection.

One in every 3,600 children born in Canada has CF and about one in every 25 Canadians is a carrier of the cystic fibrosis gene. Carriers are not affected by the disease, however, when both parents carry the defective gene, there is a 25 percent chance their child will be born with CF. Unfortunately there is still no cure for this disease and it remains fatal in all cases.

For more information visit:

Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation: http://www.cysticfibrosis.ca/