Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-shortening inherited condition that impacts the lungs, digestive system, and various other organs. It leads to the accumulation of thick, sticky mucus, making it increasingly difficult to breathe, absorb nutrients, and fight off infections.

CF is a progressive disease; it worsens over time. While current treatments can slow its progression, there is no cure. At Cure4CF, we believe research is the answer.

CF is relentless

CF doesn’t take a break. It is there every day — in every breath, every meal and every plan. Managing it requires hours of daily treatment, dozens of medications and regular hospital care, starting in infancy and continuing through adulthood.

It is physically demanding and emotionally exhausting. And while no two journeys are the same, the relentlessness of CF is something every person with the condition lives with.

That is why Cure4CF exists — to help find a way to stop this disease for good.

How common is CF in Australia?

• Around 3,700 Australians are currently living with CF
• 1 in 25 Australians carry a faulty CF gene, often without knowing it
• A child is born with CF every 4 days in Australia

CF can affect people of any background,  Thanks to improved treatments, more people with CF are living into adulthood than ever before. But the condition remains life-limiting.

What does CF do in the body?

CF affects the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Receptor (CFTR) gene, which controls the flow of salt and water in and out of cells. When this gene doesn’t work properly, it leads to a build-up of thick mucus in key organs.

The lungs, pancreas, liver and reproductive system are all affected. Over time, this causes a range of complications that require constant medical management.

No two people experience CF the same way

CF is complex and unpredictable. Some people experience severe lung disease early in life. Others may have milder symptoms for longer. But everyone with CF must stay vigilant. A single infection can mean weeks in hospital.

The reality is that CF affects every part of life, and every person differently.