Cystic Fibrosis. Here for you, for life.
A genetic condition, cystic fibrosis affects one baby born every four days. Every experience is different. Every treatment is unique. Here at HealthMatch, we want to help – the best way we can. Find a clinical trial today.
Cystic Fibrosis Clinical Trials
3,131 Australians live with cystic fibrosis, a genetic condition that sees the development of abnormal amounts of excessively thick and sticky mucus within the lungs, airways and digestive system. Impairing the digestive functions of the pancreas, trapping bacteria in the lungs, it can lead to irreversible damage.
For people with cystic fibrosis, routine is essential. It’s a relentless, full-time job. With no cure, people treat the condition with nebulisers morning and night, up to 60 capsules a day, and hours of airway clearance physiotherapy.
At HealthMatch, we’re bringing forward tomorrow’s treatments. We have four trials available for cystic fibrosis, including ones aimed at targeted gene-based therapies.
1 million
Australians carry the genetic condition – most of whom are unaware ¹
Tasmania
has the second-highest rate of Cystic Fibrosis carriers in the world ²
38
is the average life expectancy for Australians living with CF ³
Partner
Cystic Fibrosis Australia
Cystic Fibrosis Australia (CFA) has been supporting Australians living with, or affected by, cystic fibrosis since 1971. They are committed to improving clinical practice and patient outcomes, and aim to extend life expectancy for people living with CF to 50 years by 2025.
CFA focuses on collaborative programmes and research, funding partnerships and advocacy.
CFA Support Services
CFA has a number of measures in place to support people affected by cystic fibrosis. This includes community forum, Consumer Connect; clinics for adults and for children; mental health support; counselling, goal setting and e-mentoring; publications and more. See also our HealthMatch Partner Cystic Fibrosis QLD
Resources
CFBuzz App
This phone app was designed by, and is for, the cystic fibrosis community. It allows users to the ability to record personal health information, monitor goal progress, and keep track of appointments and relevant contacts.
Perx Health
Available on the App Store and Google Play, this free app makes sticking to a treatment routine more enjoyable. There are games, challenges and rewards daily. Gift cards, shopping vouchers and charity donations are all up for grabs.
FAQ
What is cystic fibrosis?
Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, hereditary disease where mucus from glands is thicker and stickier than normal, due to a malfunction in the exocrine system. It affects the lungs and digestive system – impairing digestive functions and limiting the ability to breathe over time.
People carry the cystic fibrosis genes; many carriers are unaffected and therefore show no symptoms. Parents can undergo genetic testing prior to pregnancy or birth. If both parents carry the CF gene mutation, there is a 1 in 4 chance of having a child with the condition.
Cystic fibrosis can be diagnosed with the heel prick test during a newborn screening. A Sweat Test also detects whether people have CF.
What are the symptoms of cystic fibrosis?
Common symptoms include persistent coughing with phlegm; frequent lung infections; wheezing or shortness of breath; very salty-tasting skin; poor growth or weight gain; frequent fatty stools and more.
How do you treat cystic fibrosis?
Treatments for cystic fibrosis contain many of the same elements, however, each plan is unique to tailor to the type and severity of CF symptoms a person experiences.
Elements of treatment include a bespoke physiotherapy regimen; inhaled medicines; antibiotics for chest infections; a healthy diet; pancreatic enzyme supplement capsules; regular visits to a GP or specialist and more. In more severe cases, lung transplants may be considered.
Is there a cure for cystic fibrosis?
There is currently no cure for cystic fibrosis, and treatment is lifelong.
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a scientific study involving patient or non-patient (healthy) human volunteers. They help determine whether medicines are safe and effective to introduce as new treatments for a particular disease or condition.
How do I select a clinical trial?
HealthMatch matches you to clinical trials, in an easy-to-understand process.
After completing a medical questionnaire, our platform searches for and filters eligible trials for you. You’re able to view matches and apply for trials, on your trial dashboard.
We’ll put you in direct contact with the trial group once you’ve been accepted. We won’t stop searching until we’ve found you the right match.
Find Cystic Fibrosis Clinical Trials Today
1 2 Cystic Fibrosis Australia, What is CF
3 Cystic Fibrosis Community Care, Australian Respiratory Early Surveillance Team for Cystic Fibrosis