11 Genetic Diseases You Can Easily Get Tested For
6. Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic condition that leads to thick and sticky mucus build up in organs, which leads to damaged respiratory and digestive systems. This disease is caused by a defect gene, more specifically, the CFTR gene, which controls the movement of water in and out of the cells.
When this abnormality is present, the gene is not able to do its job properly, which leads to thick mucus. The most affected organs are usually the lungs, pancreas, liver, and intestines.
The child has to inherit the gene from both parents in order to get the disease. The immunoreactive trypsinogen (IRT) test, which is used to detect levels of protein IRT in blood, along with pulmonary tests and CT scans are able to determine if you have the disease or not.