What is cystic fibrosis-related diabetes?

Cystic fibrosis-related diabetes is a type of diabetes that occurs in people who have cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis is a disease that causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs, digestive tract and other areas of the body.

Causes

The mucus build up associated with CF causes damage to the pancreas, which contains beta cells that make insulin. If enough of the insulin-producing beta cells are damaged, the body can no longer make enough insulin to keep the blood sugar normal.

Screening

Children 8 years or older, adolescents and adults with cystic fibrosis should be screened every year for CFRD.