(Bethesda, Md.) -- The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation announced today that all 50 states, plus the District of Columbia, have passed legislation requiring that all newborns be screened for cystic fibrosis by the year 2010.
Early diagnosis of cystic fibrosis, a life-threatening,
Newborn
After years of debate, Texas and Connecticut -- the last two states without mandatory newborn screening -- will now establish programs. Connecticut will begin screening Oct. 1, 2009, and Texas is expected to start in December.
“We congratulate Texas and Connecticut for joining a nationwide effort to ensure that every child born with cystic fibrosis gets the best possible start in life,” said Robert J. Beall, Ph.D., president and CEO of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. “Newborn screening is critically important for this disease because early diagnosis is tied to better health. We extend our thanks to every volunteer and advocate who fought to establish screening programs across the country.”
Research shows that newborn screening for CF likely improves and extends the lives of those born with the disease. Early diagnosis allows affected infants to begin
Cystic fibrosis affects approximately 30,000 children and adults in the United States and 70,000 people worldwide. It causes thick
When the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation was created in 1955, few children lived to attend elementary school. Today, as a result of dramatic improvements in research and care fueled by the Foundation, the median age of survival for a person with CF is more than 37 years.
About the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is the leading organization in the United States devoted to curing and controlling cystic fibrosis. Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., the Foundation has more than 70 chapters and branch offices throughout the country, and supports and accredits a nationwide network of over 110 care centers, which provide vital treatments and other CF resources to patients and families.
Media Contact
Laurie Fink, director of media relations: 301-951-4422; lfink@cff.org