Cystic Fibrosis Genetics and Treatment

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease most common among Caucasians, caused by a defective recessive gene. It leads to thick mucus in the lungs and pancreas, causing respiratory and digestive issues. Symptoms can appear in childhood but may not be evident until adulthood. The disease is inherited when both parents carry the gene. While there is no cure, treatments are improving, and gene therapy shows promise. Life expectancy has increased significantly over the past decades.

What is the primary cause of cystic fibrosis?

• A genetic mutation

• A viral infection

• An autoimmune disorder

• A bacterial infection

In which regions is cystic fibrosis most prevalent?

• Asia and Africa

• North America and Europe

• South America and Antarctica

• Middle East and India

What is a common symptom of cystic fibrosis?

• Excessive sweating

• Thick mucus in the lungs

• Frequent headaches

• High blood pressure

How has the life expectancy of cystic fibrosis patients changed over the years?

• It has decreased significantly

• It has fluctuated unpredictably

• It has remained the same

• It has increased significantly

What type of gene is responsible for cystic fibrosis?

• Y-linked gene

• X-linked gene

• Recessive gene

• Dominant gene

What is the likelihood of a child being a carrier if both parents are carriers of the cystic fibrosis gene?

• 50%

• 25%

• 0%

• 75%

If one parent is not a carrier of the cystic fibrosis gene, what is the risk of having a child with the disease?

• 0%

• 25%

• 50%

• 100%

What is a potential future treatment for cystic fibrosis?

• Antibiotics

• Gene therapy

• Chemotherapy

• Radiation therapy

What is the purpose of genetic testing in the context of cystic fibrosis?

• To prevent the disease

• To cure the disease

• To determine carrier status

• To diagnose the disease

What percentage chance does a child have of being completely free of cystic fibrosis if both parents are carriers?

• 50%

• 25%

• 75%

• 0%