Final answer:
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease impacting exocrine glands, leading to issues like chronic lung infections and digestive problems. It affects thousands annually in the U.S., and advances in medical treatment have improved life expectancy beyond previous decades.
Step-by-step explanation:
The systemic disease that affects many types of exocrine glands, potentially leading to chronic pulmonary diseases, is known as Cystic Fibrosis (CF). CF is a genetic disorder that impacts around 30,000 individuals in the United States, with about 1,000 new cases emerging annually. It is characterized by damage to the lungs, which causes breathing issues and recurrent lung infections. Furthermore, CF also affects other organs, including the liver, pancreas, and intestines.
Historically, the prognosis for children born with CF was poor, with a life expectancy not exceeding 10 years. However, medical advancements have significantly improved quality of life, with many CF patients now living into their 30s. While CF is known for pulmonary complications, the disorder equally hampers the digestive system, making digestion problematic and increasing the risk of repeated lung infections.