Understanding Cystic Fibrosis

Course Summary

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that primarily affects the lungs, but may also have serious adverse effects on many other organ systems. In cystic fibrosis the genetic information is faulty and causes a serious condition to develop where thick, viscous secretions are produced that affect the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, including the pancreas, and other body organs. There is no cure for cystic fibrosis but medications, physical therapy, diet, and lifestyle adjustments can help prevent complications by making life easier for patients to live with the disease.