Children of CF carriers can inherit their copy of the CFTR gene mutation. There is a 25% (1 in 4) probability that a child born to two CF carriers will have the disease.
<h3>What causes cystic fibrosis primarily?</h3>
Cystic fibrosis is brought on by a mutation in the CFTR gene (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator).
This gene regulates the movement of fluids and salt into and out of your cells.
When the CFTR gene isn't functioning properly, your body produces a buildup of sticky mucus.
<h3>Cystic fibrosis usually results in death.</h3>
When cystic fibrosis causes a severe illness or the lungs stop functioning properly, it can be fatal.
It also has a tendency to get worse over time. However, because to improvements in medicine, patients with cystic fibrosis are now living longer.
Approximately half of those who have cystic fibrosis will live past the age of 40 at this time.
