Cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (also known as mucoviscidosis) is a recessive multi-system inherited chronic disease that affects about 70 000 children and adults worldwide. CF is most common among Caucasians. One in 25 Europeans carries one allele for CF. The disease is characterized by abnormal transport of chloride and sodium across epithelium, which leads to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections. The mucus also obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body absorb food.