ALPHA KAPPA PSI
Professional Business Fraternity at James Madison University
PHILANTHROPY
Our chapter’s philanthropy, Cystic Fibrosis, has a special place in each and every one of our brothers’ hearts. As a chapter we strive to raise awareness and money for Cystic Fibrosis through events such as our annual 5K. These efforts help contribute to the search for a cure and the improvement of Cystic Fibrosis treatments.
What is Cystic Fibrosis?
According to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation “Cystic fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States (70,000 worldwide). A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections; and obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food.”
Is there a cure for cystic fibrosis?
Is there a cure for cystic fibrosis?
Currently, there is no cure for cystic fibrosis. However, specialized medical care, aggressive drug treatments and therapies, along with proper CF nutrition, can lengthen and improve the quality of life for those with CF.
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About 1,000 new cases of cystic fibrosis are diagnosed each year.
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More than 70% of patients are diagnosed by age two.
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More than 45% of the CF patient population is age 18 or older.
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The predicted median age of survival for a person with CF is in the early 40s.