|
|
|
|
|
|
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is one of the most common genetic conditions in the United States. It is caused by changes in the CFTR gene. Changes in this gene cause the body to produce thick sticky mucus in the lungs, pancreas and other organs that can affect breathing and digestion. CF does not affect everyone the same way, therefore, some people may be more severely affected than others. Symptoms can range from moderate to severe and can even impact fertility. The average lifespan of someone affected with CF is 37 years.1
It is estimated that more than 10 million Americans are carriers of CF. While the risk of being a CF carrier is dependent upon one's ethnicity and family history, individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be carriers of CF.
For more information, please visit the CFTR2 website (http://www.cftr2.org)
References
-
Update on carrier screening for cystic fibrosis. ACOG Committee Opinion No. 486. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Obstet Gynecol. 2011;117(4):1028-1031.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|