• What Is Cystic Fibrosis?
• What Causes CF?
• What Is Carrier Screening?
• Who Should Be Screened?
• What If I Am a Carrier?
• Is Screening Accurate?
• Should I Be Screened?
• Why Not Be Screened?
• Other Places To Get Help
• Related Information
• References
• Credits

What Is Cystic Fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disease caused by a change (mutation) in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) gene. It is a chronic, progressive disease that causes mucus to become thick and sticky. The mucus builds up and clogs passages in many of the body's organs, but mostly in the lungs and the pancreas. In the lungs, the mucus can cause serious breathing problems and lung disease. In the pancreas, the mucus can cause digestive problems and malnutrition, which can lead to problems with growth and development.