Cystic Fibrosis (also known as CF) is a common hereditary disease which affects the entire body, causing progressive disability and often early death. The name cystic fibrosis refers to the characteristic scarring (fibrosis) and cyst formation within the pancreas, first recognized in the 1930s. Difficulty breathing (Shortness of breath) is the most serious symptom and results from frequent lung infections (pneumonia) that are treated, though not cured, by antibiotics and other medications. A multitude of other symptoms, including sinus infections (Sinusitis), poor growth (failure to thrive), diarrhea, and infertility result from the effects of CF on other parts of the body.Citation neededdate=May 2010

CF is caused by a mutation in the gene for the protein cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). This gene is required to regulate the components of sweat, digestive (digestion) juices, and mucus. Although most people without CF have two working copies of the CFTR gene, only one is needed to prevent cystic fibrosis. CF develops when neither gene works normally. Therefore, CF is considered an autosomal (Autosome) recessive (recessive gene) disease.Citation neededdate=May 2010

CF is most common among Caucasians (Caucasian race) and Ashkenazi Jews; one in 25 people of European descent carry (genetic carrier) one gene for CF. Citation neededdate=May 2010 Approximately 30,000 Americans have CF, making it one of the most common life-shortening inherited diseases. Individuals with cystic fibrosis can be diagnosed before birth by genetic testing, or by a sweat test in early childhood. There is no cure, and most individuals with cystic fibrosis die at a young age — many in their 20s and 30s from lung failure. Ultimately, lung transplantation is often necessary as CF worsens. Citation neededdate=May 2010