Final answer:
Cystic fibrosis is an autosomal recessive disease that mainly impacts the respiratory and digestive systems due to thick mucus production. It is caused by a defective CFTR gene leading to chronic lung infections and malabsorption of nutrients. Advances in medicine have improved lifespan and quality of life for patients.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cystic fibrosis is an autosomal recessive genetic disease that causes the production of abnormally thick and sticky mucus. This mucus primarily affects the respiratory and digestive systems of the body. People with cystic fibrosis often experience difficulty breathing due to mucus accumulation in the lungs, which leads to chronic lung infections. Furthermore, the mucus obstructs the pancreas and other digestive organs, leading to malabsorption of nutrients and a variety of digestive issues.
Cystic fibrosis results from a defective gene that causes a malfunction in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. This protein is responsible for the movement of chloride ions in and out of cells. When the CFTR protein is defective, the salt and water balance on cell surfaces is disrupted, leading to the production of the characteristic thick mucus.
Owing to advances in medical treatments, the life expectancy of individuals with cystic fibrosis has increased over the years. In the United States, it affects about 30,000 individuals, with 1,000 new cases each year, and is particularly common in people of Northern European ancestry. While cystic fibrosis is still a serious and life-threatening condition, medical interventions have significantly improved the quality and duration of life for those affected.