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A recent survey shows that people with cystic fibrosis (CF) broadly favor targeted therapy using patient-derived organoids — the three-dimensional organ-like structures made from a patient’s own cells. The finding suggests that this technology might be integrated successfully into healthcare systems. The study, “Avatar acceptability: views…

Scores of virtual events are afoot around the world to mark Rare Disease Day 2021 on Feb. 28. The activities are focused on heightening awareness about rare diseases and the hundreds of millions of individuals they are thought to affect. Patients, caregivers, and advocates worldwide will sport denim ribbons…

Blood C-reactive protein (CRP) and calprotectin levels can reliably identify pulmonary exacerbations in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, making them promising diagnostic biomarkers, a pilot study has found. Although further investigations are necessary to determine their clinical applicability, the researchers note that “a step-wise algorithm that…

Higher doses of vitamin D supplements do not appear to lead to better clinical outcomes, either in lung function or bone health, in people with cystic fibrosis (CF), a systematic review reported. Because this crucial vitamin is lacking in patients, however, further studies evaluating the long-term effects of vitamin…

While progress was made last year on newborn screening and other policy issues critical to rare disease patients, a “State Report Card” argues that many concerns — notably out-of-pocket costs for prescription medicines and access to affordable comprehensive care — still need attention. Those were the findings of the…

Hospitalized children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis (CF) who can take enzyme treatments for pancreatic insufficiency on their own, rather than waiting for them to be given by a nurse, are more likely to take these necessary medications at the proper time with less of a wait, a survey…