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Cystic fibrosis, often referred to as CF, is the most common genetic disease affecting children and young adults in Canada.
Respirologist Dr. Shawn Aaron answers some of the most frequently asked questions about CF, covering causes, symptoms, and the incredible advancements in treatment that are giving hope to so many.
What is cystic fibrosis?
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the respiratory, digestive and reproductive systems. It is caused by a defective gene that leads to the production of a thick and sticky mucus that obstructs organs such as the lungs, pancreas and digestive tract, making it difficult for them to function properly.
What are the typical complications caused by CF?
Typical complications of CF include difficulty digesting fats and proteins, malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies, progressive lung damage, CF-related diabetes and sinus infections.
What are the symptoms of CF?
CF is a multi-system disorder, which means it affects many different parts of the body. Symptoms may include a persistent cough with thick mucus, wheezing and shortness of breath, frequent chest infections, bowel disturbances, weight loss or failure to gain weight, salty-tasting sweat, and infertility in men and decreased fertility in women.
What causes CF?
CF occurs when a child inherits two defective copies of the gene responsible for cystic fibrosis, one from each parent. Approximately one in 25 Canadians carry one defective copy of the CF gene. Carriers do not have CF, nor do they exhibit any of the related symptoms. A common misconception is that CF is contagious, but this couldn’t be further from the truth; it is a genetic condition.
Should I get tested for the CF gene?
If you are considering starting a family and have a close relative with CF, you may want to be tested for the CF gene. If both you and your partner carry the gene, there is a one in four chance that your baby will be born with CF.
What is the life expectancy for someone with CF?
Life expectancy for individuals with CF has seen remarkable improvements over the years. Today, CF is now a manageable disease due to new drugs that improve symptoms, decrease infections and prolong life for more than 85 per cent of patients. Most people born with CF today can expect to live a near-normal lifespan.
Learn more
In this video, Dr. Aaron provides more insight into CF for those affected by this condition and their loved ones.
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