Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is the most common life threatening, recessive genetic condition affecting Australian children.
Symptoms can include:
- poor weight gain
- troublesome coughs
- repeated chest infections
- salty sweat and abnormal stools
Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic disease that affects a number of organs in the body (especially the lungs and pancreas) by clogging them with thick, sticky mucus.
Repeated infections and blockages can cause irreversible lung damage and death. Mucus can also cause problems in the pancreas preventing the release of enzymes needed for the digestion of food. This means that people with CF can have problems with nutrition.
CF is an inherited condition. For a child to be born with CF both parents must be genetic carriers for CF. They do not have CF themselves.
In Australia, all babies are screened at birth for CF.
At present there is no cure for CF, but the faulty gene has been identified and doctors and scientists are working to find ways of repairing or replacing it. One of the main objectives of the CFA Research Trust is to fund this work.
With today’s improved treatment most people with CF are able to lead reasonably normal and productive lives. A great amount of time is being directed towards finding new and improved ways of treating CF and of finally finding a cure.
At Sunshine Butterflies we aim to provide an inclusive environment for individuals and their families living with Cystic Fibrosis. If you would like further information on how Sunshine Butterflies can support you, please do not hesitate to contact us.