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Young Adults/Teens with CF

Managing cystic fibrosis (CF) can sometimes feel overwhelming at any stage of your life. Cystic Fibrosis Canada can help you navigate life with CF by connecting you to the resources you need.

young man uses a respirator while scrolling on his mobile phone

Goal: optimal health

Being a teenager or young adult with a chronic disease like cystic fibrosis (CF) can be challenging, especially with the demands of a social life, school, activities, etc. Balancing your social life and making good lifestyle choices are essential to maintaining your health. You can ensure you stay as healthy as possible by exercising regularly, eating well, getting enough sleep, maintaining a treatment plan, and avoiding smoking and drinking. 

Manage your transition

During this time, you can become more independent and a natural progression is that you will start taking more responsibility for your treatments. Airway clearance, exercise, nutrition and medications will all remain vital aspects of cystic fibrosis management and adherence to your treatment plan is essential to maintain the best health possible. Doing things like reducing your CF treatments or exposure to large groups of people can negatively impact your health. You don’t have to stay in your room- simply be aware of the activities you need to be cautious of or avoid entirely to protect your health. 

You may also be transitioning clinics from pediatrics (children’s hospital) to adult. This will also require you to make new relationships with a new CF care team. Check out our transition guide, developed with the support of our adult cystic fibrosis advisory committee, to ensure the transition goes smoothly.