Advances in medicine are now allowing people with cystic fibrosis to make life plans that, two decades ago, would have been impossible to fulfill. Thanks to progress in treatments and early diagnosis, more than half of patients with cystic fibrosis are currently adults, when 20 years ago most deaths occurred in childhood or adolescence.
Cystic fibrosis is a degenerative genetic disease that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system, causing the accumulation of thick mucus that makes breathing and digestion difficult. This condition requires rigorous daily treatments, including respiratory physiotherapy, medication and a specific diet to maintain patients' quality of life.
This demographic shift brings new challenges for the healthcare system, which needs to adapt to follow adults with cystic fibrosis throughout their entire lives. Healthcare professionals now face issues related to family planning, long-term chronic disease management and complications associated with aging with this condition.
Experts point out that, despite significant progress, cystic fibrosis remains a serious disease that requires permanent medical follow-up. However, the future of patients is now brighter, allowing them to think about professional careers, relationships and long-term plans that were previously unlikely.
