People with cystic fibrosis (CF) often get lung infections that can make their breathing worse and make their lungs weaker over time. Sputum culture is usually analyzed to find these infections. Currently, many people with CF are using CFTR modulators. These medicines help, but they also make it harder for people to cough up sputum. Even though people with CF are making less sputum, lung infections are still a problem. New ways are needed to check for infections without using sputum.
The SEND-CF study wants to gather health information and samples from people with CF in order to find new and better ways to spot harmful bacteria in the lungs. Participants, who typically are able to produce sputum who consent to participate will be asked to provide samples including sputum, saliva, serum, plasma, buffy coat, urine, and whole blood. Some participants will also provide breath samples for a sub-study.
