What is Cystic Fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited, life-threatening disease that affects the lungs and digestive systems of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States. Tremendous progress has been made thanks to a focus on pioneering cystic fibrosis research and care. To continue to combat this orphan disease, we need to expand support and ensure critical research continues. Together, we can build hope and add tomorrows every day for those with CF.

What it Means to Have Cystic Fibrosis (CF)

There is no cure for CF.

People with CF have two copies of a defective gene that causes the body to produce abnormally thick, sticky mucus, which clogs the lungs and can result in fatal lung infections. The mucus also obstructs the pancreas, causing difficulty with absorbing nutrients in food.

Extraordinary Progress

In 1955 people born with CF were not expected to live long enough to attend elementary school. Today, the predicted median age of survival for someone with the disease is 37 years.

Continuing the Search for Control and a Cure

The CF Foundation’s aggressive investments in innovative research and comprehensive care have yielded a drug development pipeline that boasts more than 30 potential new therapies and the establishment of 115 care centers nationwide designed specifically to treat people with CF. Increased federal support for research and improved access to specialized care and medicine hold the promise of healthier and longer lives for people with CF.