Foundation says surfers are helping to fight CF

A new US campaign has been set up by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, to raise awareness of a treatment for the condition discovered by accident in tests on surfers.

Several years ago, doctors in Australia noticed young surfers with cystic fibrosis had significantly healthier lungs. The doctors determined that inhaling saltwater mist has a powerful effect on rehydrating the lining of the lungs and allowing CF patients to more easily eliminate bacteria-contaminated mucus. This discovery led to the development of a hypertonic saline solution, which CF patients around the world now inhale every day. In essence, CF patients now mimic a "surf session" on a daily basis.

The recent saltwater breakthrough treatment has led the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to form the Pipeline To A Cure campaign to raise funds and to bring about global awareness of what it describes as a unique bond between surfing and those with CF.