Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common, fatal genetic disease affecting young Canadians. CF affects mainly the lungs and the digestive system. In the lungs, CF causes severe breathing problems. A build-up of thick mucus makes it difficult to clear bacteria and leads to cycles of infection and inflammation, which damage the delicate lung tissues.

In the digestive tract, CF makes it extremely difficult to digest and absorb adequate nutrients from food. Thick mucus also blocks the ducts of the pancreas, preventing enzymes from reaching the intestines to digest food. Therefore, persons with CF must consume a large number of artificial enzymes (on average 20 pills a day) with every meal and snack, to help them absorb adequate nutrition from their food. They must also follow a demanding daily routine of physical therapy to keep the lungs free of congestion and infection.

In this section we have tried to list the most frequently asked questions about Cystic Fibrosis. Select a question from the headings below, and hopefully you will find the answer you are looking for.

Please do not hesitate to contact our chapter office (navigate to "Contact Us" on the main menu) if you find the answers inadequate and we will attempt to provide you with the information you require.