Foods are not digested properly, fats and nutrients are not absorbed, and patients inevitably lose weight. CF is inherited but both parents must contribute a CF gene for a child to develop the disease. Boys and girls are equally susceptible. Most children with CF die before reaching adulthood. CF affects children and diagnosis is usually made before the age of three years.
Symptoms appear in the lungs and digestive system, and vary in severity.
Babies born with CF will not put on weight, as parents would expect. Mucus blocks the pancreas and prevents digestive enzymes from entering the intestines. Cells in the sweat glands are affected and release excess salt in the perspiration. Children with CF will have congestion, wheezing and asthma-like symptoms. Chronic infections will often lead to lung disease and disability.