National Leaders in Testing Babies for Cystic Fibrosis!

Dr. Mark Montgomery and Nicole

Thanks to research funded by community support through the Kinsmen Children’s Hospital Home Lotto and led by experts here at the Alberta Children’s Hospital, our province became the first in the country to test all newborns for cystic fibrosis (CF).  CF is a life-limiting illness which attacks the lining of the lungs and the digestive system. The earlier it is detected and treated, the less long-term damage the disease will have on a child’s body.

"In the past, many infants would have progressed well into the disease before they were diagnosed. This could result in failure to thrive, persistent lung infections or even learning disabilities," says Dr. Mark Montgomery, the CF specialist at the Alberta Children's Hospital who led the research project.  "Now that we can diagnose cystic fibrosis earlier, we can give these kids a better chance at a longer, healthier life."

Baby Nicole was the first baby to test positive for CF during Dr. Montgomery’s research project. Although shocked and saddened by the news, Nicole’s mom was grateful to know that her little girl was going to get the help she needed right away. Thanks to the early answers provided by genetic testing, Nicole was able to begin treatment for CF immediately – long before the illness could begin to affect her little body. Early treatment helps her absorb more nutrients and protects her lungs from permanent damage.

Says mom, “It would have been awful to see Nicole get sick and wonder what was going on. It’s good to know what we’re dealing with.”

Today, Nicole is a happy, thriving and fashionable toddler. She loves to chat endlessly on her pretend cell phone and enjoys bugging her brothers.

Thanks to community support of this groundbreaking research, children diagnosed with cystic fibrosis will have the chance to live the healthiest and longest life possible. Thank you!