Roxanne / Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that mainly affects the lungs, but also the pancreas, liver, kidneys, intestine and is the most common inherited disease in the Caucasian race. Its characteristic feature is the accumulation of thick mucus in various organs. Long-term problems include difficulty breathing and coughing as a result of frequent lung infections. Different people may have different degrees of symptoms. There is no known cure for cystic fibrosis. A lung transplant may be an option if lung function continues to deteriorate. Average life expectancy in the developed world is between 42 and 50 years Lung problems are responsible for death in 80% of people with cystic fibrosis. Approximately 1 in 2000-2500 children are estimated to be born each year in Greece with cystic fibrosis, while 4-5% of the population are considered to be carriers.