May is national Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month!
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition that causes progressive respiratory and digestive system damage. Someone with CF has thick, sticky mucus, versus “healthy” slippery mucus, which builds up in their system.
That build-up can clog airways and trap bacteria, lead to breathing problems, frequent infections, lung damage and respiratory failure. Additionally, the thick mucus prevents the release of digestive enzymes, making it difficult for patients to absorb necessary nutrients.
Approximately 30,000 children and adults in the United States have CF, while more than 10 million Americans are symptomless carriers of the defective CF gene.
And the average life expectancy for someone diagnosed with CF is about 37 years.
But that number has consistently risen with every year – in fact, it used to be known as primarily a childhood/young adult disease. But thanks to advancements in research and treatment, life expectancy has risen – which is why it’s so important to continue raising awareness and forging ahead with advocacy.
So what are some ways we can do just that?
-
Check out the Cystic Fibrosis Foundations’s handy and helpful “CF Awareness Toolkit” to get tips, tools, and language that you can use to help spread the word.
-
Get involved in Great Strides, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s largest fundraising event where each year, more than 125,000 people participate in over 400 walks across the country to support the Foundation’s mission to cure CF and raise awareness.
-
Become an advocate and contact members of Congress on behalf of people with CF.
So let’s start spreading the word and get people enlightened on not just what CF is, but also on the amazing progress – and future – of treatment and a cure!
What are your thoughts on the importance of cystic fibrosis awareness? Share your stories, thoughts, and hopes with the Patient Worthy community!
To find out more about CF, check out our partners Cystic Life and Strawfie Challenge.
