5 Ways to Help a Child with Cystic Fibrosis Live a Longer, Healthier Life

Depending on which type of genetic mutation is causing cystic fibrosis in a child, there might be medications available that target the root of the disease itself. Since 2012, medications have become steadily available to those with specific genetic conditions. These types of drugs can act upon the malfunctioning protein itself, and reverse or eliminate symptoms of cystic fibrosis entirely. A genetic blood test can determine eligibility, and if determined eligible, the treatment is typically a single pill taken twice daily.

There is no existing cure for cystic fibrosis, but this type of genetically-focused medication is considered the next evolution of cystic fibrosis treatment. The largest hurdle to this type of treatment option is that there are over 1000 genetic defects related to and responsible for the cystic fibrosis condition. Scientists are always working to alter and provide treatment for each type of genetic variation, and in the future, more of these types of therapies will become available.