CYSTIC FIBROSIS

Early day motion 15, tabled 26 November 2003 by Tim Yeo (Conservative). Signed by 75 members.

That this House congratulates the Cystic Fibrosis Trust for raising awareness of cystic fibrosis (CF) which is one of the UK's most common life-threatening inherited diseases; notes that one of every 2,500 babies born in the UK has CF and that there are over 7,500 sufferers in the UK; is concerned that five babies are born every week with CF and that three young people die of the disease every week; further notes that CF affects vital organs in the body, especially the lungs and the pancreas; wishes to raise awareness of other complications of CF including malnutrition, liver damage and osteoporosis; is heartened that whereas in 1964, when the Cystic Fibrosis Trust was formed, the life expectancy of children born with CF was less than 10 years, today, as a result of advances in medical research and a better understanding of the disease, the average lifespan of a person with CF is around 30 years; is further encouraged that a cure for CF is now within sight, with the Cystic Fibrosis Trust pointing out 'we are now talking about when rather than if'; praises the Cystic Fibrosis Trust which is the only national charity concerned solely with the wellbeing of people with CF, and which funds medical and scientific research aimed at understanding, treating and curing the condition; and wishes the Cystic Fibrosis Trust every success in the future.

Signatures by party: Conservative 63, DUP 3, Liberal Democrat 3, Labour 2, UUP 2, Independent Conservative 1, Independent Ulster Unionist 1.