Newly Diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis (CF)

Managing CF can feel overwhelming so it is important for you to take these steps when you or a loved one is diagnosed with CF. You will meet with the care team (physicians, CF care coordinator, nurses, respiratory therapists, nutritionist, and social worker) who will explain the condition, map out a CF care strategy, and discuss resources. 

In addition to partnering with your healthcare team, the steps below can help you better understand and manage a CF diagnosis.

  • Learn about cystic fibrosis. It is important to find out how cystic fibrosis affects your body and what steps you need to take to best manage your disease.
  • Find out what treatments and therapies are available for managing your CF.
  • If you don’t have a healthcare provider that specializes in CF, request an evaluation at an accredited CF center. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation website has a tool to assist in locating a care center.

Getting support early is important.

  • Local CF chapters of the CF Foundation are available to help support parents of children newly diagnosed with CF, as well as in older individuals living with CF.
  • The CF Patient Assistance Foundation helps people with CF afford medication and the devices needed to stay healthy. It also assists individuals in applying for supplemental social security and social security disability benefits.
  • The CF legal hotline provides information for individuals with CF about their rights.

Reviewed and approved by the American Lung Association Scientific and Medical Editorial Review Panel.

Page last updated: October 16, 2024

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