The effect of Cystic Fibrosis on infants

• Cystic Fibrosis is caused by a genetic disorder involving the CF gene, in which both mother and father must carry the gene in order for the disorder to occur in the fetus.  At birth, the infant has meconium ileus, which  causes obstruction of the small and large intestine, making fecal excretion difficult.  
• CF is characterized primarily by excessive production of mucus in the lungs and pancreases. Pulmonary infection is seen because the excess mucus provides a favorable environment for the bacteria to grow, therefore making breathing difficult. It also cloggs the pancreases, in turn affecting digestion.
• Cystic Fibrosis cannot be cured and majority of the individuals with the disease die before age 30. Babies with CF can live a nearly normal life though, with life expectancy increasing as treatment methods increase. It is the most common genetic disorders, with 1 in 3,300 caucasian babies affected.
• Proper nutrition is vital because a child who is otherwise strong, healthy, and well nourished gives the CF therapies a better chance to provide some relief. The earlier it is caught, the more effective the therapy will be.
• It is sometimes hard to diagnose at birth, because babies with CF seem fine at birth but then develop breathing problems 4-6 weeks after birth. Health care providers should look for poor growth, as well as nagging cough and wheezing.