Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States (70,000 worldwide). A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs, leading to life-threatening lung infections. The sticky mucus also obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food. Symptoms include very salty-tasting skin, frequent lung infections and wheezing or shortness of breath.
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
U.S. National Library of Medicine: MedLine Plus video
U.S. National Library of Medicine: MedLine Plus
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