What Is Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder most common among Caucasians, affecting 1 in 2,000 to 3,000 newborns. It is caused by a recessive gene mutation leading to thick mucus in the lungs and pancreas, causing respiratory and digestive issues. Symptoms can appear in childhood or adulthood. While there is no cure, treatments have improved, extending life expectancy. Gene therapy offers hope for future treatments. The disorder is inherited when both parents carry the recessive gene, with a 25% chance of passing it to their child. Testing is available to identify carriers.

Which population is most affected by cystic fibrosis?

• Hispanic descent

• African descent

• Caucasian descent

• Asian descent

What is the current median age of cystic fibrosis patients?

• 33 years old

• 20 years old

• 60 years old

• 45 years old

What is a major symptom of cystic fibrosis?

• Excessive sweating

• Thick, sticky mucus in the lungs

• Frequent headaches

• High blood pressure

How is cystic fibrosis inherited?

• Through a recessive gene

• Through environmental factors

• Through a dominant gene

• Through a viral infection

If both parents are carriers of the cystic fibrosis gene, what is the probability that their child will be a carrier?

• 50%

• 25%

• 100%

• 75%