Cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is an inherited condition in which the lungs and digestive system can become clogged with thick, sticky mucus.

It can cause problems with breathing and digestion from a young age. Over many years, the lungs become increasingly damaged and may eventually stop working properly.

Most cases of cystic fibrosis in the UK are now identified through screening tests carried out soon after birth. It’s estimated that 1 in every 2,500 babies born in the UK has cystic fibrosis.

A number of treatments are available to help reduce the problems caused by the condition, but unfortunately average life expectancy is reduced for people who have it.

Symptoms

Symptoms of cystic fibrosis tend to start in early childhood, although they can sometimes develop very soon after birth, or may not be obvious until adulthood.

Some of the main symptoms of cystic fibrosis can include:

recurring chest infections difficulty putting on weight frequent, wet-sounding coughs diarrhoea occasional wheezing and shortness of breath

People with the condition can also develop a number of related conditions, including diabetes, thin, weakened bones (osteoporosis) and liver problems.

Read more about the symptoms of cystic fibrosis


Cystic fibrosis can cause a range of problems. The lungs and digestive system are the main areas that are affected.

Symptoms tend to start in early childhood, but sometimes they can develop soon after birth and very occasionally they may not be obvious until adulthood.

Nowadays, cystic fibrosis is usually diagnosed before symptoms appear, through screening tests carried out soon after birth. Read more about screening for cystic fibrosis.

The main problems associated with cystic fibrosis are outlined below.