What is cystic fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common serious genetic disease in our community. One in 25 people carry the gene for CF, and one in 2500 live births is a baby with CF.

The disease mainly affects the digestive and the respiratory systems. When someone has CF, the body produces thick, sticky mucus which prevents digestive enzymes reaching food in the stomach. Mucus also collects in the lungs clogging the airways and trapping bacteria which causes lung infection.

How is CF treated?

The CF gene has recently been identified. Improved treatment with the release of new drugs is meaning better control of the disease. CF patients are now living longer. Adults are receiving successful lung transplants.

At the moment every person who has CF must have intensive daily physiotherapy to combat the build up of mucus in the lungs. Most people with CF will also take up to 40 enzymes replacement tablets each day to aid their digestion and oral antibiotics to prevent severe chest infections. They must also follow high energy diets with added vitamins.

Regular visits to CF clinics, hospitalisation and intravenous antibiotic treatment, are common for people with CF.

Student's needs in schools

Most students with CF dislike attention being drawn to their condition. Generally students should be allowed to cough without comment. If the student has a prolonged coughing fit, you can excuse him/her for a drink. It is dangerous for someone with CF to suppress their cough.

Students with CF need to take fluids with their meals to aid digestion. With younger children, the likelihood of toileting accidents is increased. Children with CF should be able to go to the toilet on request and not be made to wait.

Absenteeism due to clinic appointments and hospital admission may mean a lack of continuity in schooling. Liaison with hospital teachers can help to ensure school standards are maintained when the child is well enough.

Effort should be made to include children with CF in school activities.

Students should be encouraged to be responsible for themselves whenever possible. The condition affects each individual differently. To help them cope with a lifestyle that sets him/her apart at times, it may be helpful for other students to have some understanding of CF.