Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disorder which affects many functions of the body, such as breathing, digestion, and reproduction. It is a lifelong disorder which usually gets more severe by age and both male and females can have it.

        In CF, the glands which produce mucus, saliva and intestinal fluids do not work properly and people with Cystic Fibrosis have secretions which are thick and sticky rather than thin and watery. This can cause breathing problems, lung damage, improper growth and weight gain, digestive problems, and respiratory problems, but people with Cystic Fibrosis have normal intelligence. Cystic Fibrosis is diagnosed by making a sweat test to look for high levels of salt. Genetic testing can also be done. Although there is no cure for Cystic Fibrosis, there are treatments which can improve the lives of people with the disorder by helping to control their symptoms.