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Cystic Fibrosis Screenings
April 27, 2009 |
Researchers are finding new hope in screening methods as they search for a cure
for cystic fibrosis.
“If a child is born today with cystic fibrosis, the likelihood that they live 40
years of age is very high,” says Dr. Luis Faverio, a pediatric pulmonologist on the medical staff at The Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida. It’s a grim statistic,
but thanks to new screening technology, researchers are finding better ways to treat
cystic fibrosis until a cure is discovered. “That has been a blessing for these
babies, because we know that the prognosis of these children, at least from a nutritional
standpoint, is a lot better
when they are diagnosed early,” explains Dr. Faverio.
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the respiratory system. One in
30 Americans actually carry the gene. It can skip a generation and can deprive the
body of much needed nutrients, especially in babies. “They don’t absorb what they
eat, they don’t absorb certain vitamins, which are crucial,” adds Dr. Faverio. That’s
why screenings are essential. Hours after birth, babies are fed and screened to
see how the body accepts the nutrients in their system; their blood is also tested
to make sure it has the appropriate protein levels.
Diagnosis and treatments are key. The Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida has
created a center to help these patients and their families and is the only facility
of its kind between Tampa and Miami. “We are lucky to be part of the network of
Cystic Fibrosis Centers here in Fort Myers, that we can see these children early
on so we can institute treatment as early as possible,” says Dr. Faverio.
Currently, cystic fibrosis is treated with medication and other methods prescribed
by a physician. The Cystic Fibrosis Center in Lee County not only helps patients
but also provides educational and emotional support programs for families as well. |
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