“As advances in CF knowledge and care are potentially able to prolong the life expectancy of many patients, it’s important to keep in mind the complications—beyond lung disease—that will develop and progress as patients age.^1,9-11 Monitoring for these complications can help detect their emergence and progression, which can ensure earlier intervention; this has been associated with better outcomes in patients.

Knowing CF affects the lungs this is how it happens:

Early as in utero and into infancy, inflammation may occur, with the possibility of mucus plugging and bronchiectasis.

Inflammation, lung structure and lung function may progress throughout childhood.

Childhood, adolescence and early adulthood what happens is lower airway inflammation and worsening airway abnormalities including established bronchiectasis may occur, driven by the inflammation in the lungs.

In Adulthood and Aging what happens is airway destruction and complications, including bacterial infections, bronchiectasis with hemoptysis, and pneumothorax, may occur and may lead to progressive respiratory failure, often requiring lung transplant.”

CF Source (Multi-Organ Disease Progression in Cystic Fibrosis (CF)