Cystic fibrosis

From WikiCover

Cystic fibrosis is a life-threatening genetic disease that affects 30,000 children and adults in the United States. CF causes thick mucus to build up in the lungs and other organs, causing life-threatening infections and serious digestive complications.

Starting July 1, 2007, the state of Florida began screening all newborns for cystic fibrosis. Florida joins 36 other states in the country, plus the District of Columbia, to routinely screen for CF at birth.

Research shows that screening for CF will likely improve and extend the lives of those born with the disease. Early diagnosis allows for affected infants to begin therapeutic interventions immediately. These interventions have been shown to help people with CF to maintain or improve lung function, as well as increase life expectancy and reduce hospitalizations. Early intervention has been shown to improve height, weight, and cognitive function as well.