Adults with cystic fibrosis – medical challenges and a psychosocial adaptation in the context of risk of a premature death

Abstract

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is the most common life-limiting genetic disorder of Caucasians. It impairs the functions of many organs with its greatest effects on the lungs and digestion. Treatment of the disease involves a multi- component regimen, including airway clearance techniques, nebulized medications, antibiotics, pancreatic enzymes and increased caloric intake. Cystic fibrosis is a burden for patients and their families in the context of their daily life tasks. The article presents generic medical, psychosocial problems of adult patients with CF, which are still little known in Poland. The detailed issues are: medical characteristics of cystic fibrosis as a rare disease, organizational conditions of rehabilitation, specific psychosocial problems including: a depression, an anxiety and a reproductive health in cystic fibrosis in the context of a premature death.