title: Feasibility study of community control programmes for cystic fibrosis: memorandum from a WHO/ICF(M)A meeting.
abstract: As a result of improved medical services and diagnosis of cystic fibrosis (CF), it has in recent years become clear that this is a common genetic disorder with a worldwide distribution. The average life expectancy of CF patients is very low in the developing world, but in developed countries this fatal childhood disease is becoming a chronic disorder persisting into adult life. In western Europe and North America the average life expectancy is now about 25 years, with a fatal outcome, so that CF represents one of the most serious of inherited life-threatening conditions. It remains to be shown whether very early diagnosis and treatment can further improve the prognosis.
mesh_terms: D003550:Cystic Fibrosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000235:genetics / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003906:Developing Countries; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005821:Genetic Techniques; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008403:Mass Screening; D011296:Prenatal Diagnosis; D011314:Preventive Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration; D014944:World Health Organization