$Unique_ID{BRK01537}
$Pretitle{Respiratory System}
$Title{Where Does Cystic Fibrosis Come From?}
$Subject{cystic fibrosis genetic disease}
$Volume{H-5}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Where Does Cystic Fibrosis Come From?


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QUESTION:  I would be very grateful to you if you would consider discussing
cystic fibrosis in your column.  Can you please give me some information as to
its causes or where it comes from?  Thank you.

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ANSWER:  Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a hereditary disease.  It is caused by a
recessive gene, which means that a person can carry the gene without having
CF, and that although the children of parents who carry the gene have a chance
of getting CF, they also may be normal.
     In the United States, CF is most common in white people, affecting one in
every 3,000 births, compared to only one in 17,000 black children, and it is
even rarer among Oriental babies.
     Treatment of CF has improved to the point where half of children with CF
live to adulthood.  Symptoms may include wheezing and coughing, but the
clearest indicator of CF is that the child simply doesn't seem to thrive.  He
or she will probably have a history of respiratory tract infections and poor
digestion.
     Not only can tests diagnose whether a child has CF, new tests are helpful
in identifying who is carrying the gene, in diagnosing the disease in
newborns, and even before birth, during the first trimester of pregnancy.  In
families that already have at least one child with CF, DNA analysis can be
used to diagnose CF during pregnancy.  The earlier CF is diagnosed, the sooner
the family can begin to cope with it.
     Because CF runs in families, it is important for people who have a
history of CF in their families to find out if they are carriers.  This
information can help them to make informed choices about having children, and
lead to early diagnosis and help for their children.  You can obtain further
information from your doctor or by contacting your local Cystic Fibrosis
Foundation that is listed in your local telephone book.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
