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Cystic Fibrosis Carrier Screening - What Causes Cystic Fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder. A child must inherit two defective CF genes (one defective gene from each parent) to have the disease.

A person who has inherited only one defective CF gene is a carrier of cystic fibrosis and does not have the disease but can pass it on to his or her children. This person can also pass on carrier status.

  • If only one parent is a carrier of a defective CF gene, the child will not have CF. But there is a 50% (1-in-2) chance that the child will be a CF carrier.
  • If both parents are carriers, there is a 25% (1-in-4) chance that the child will have CF, but a 50% chance that the child will be a carrier.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: June 26, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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