Cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD)

Cystic fibrosis-related diabetes is one of the most common complications of cystic fibrosis and becomes more common with age, from adolescence into adulthood. It may develop gradually or be triggered by a cystic fibrosis flare-up or a medicine. Symptoms can include low energy, weight loss, thirst, passing more urine and a drop in lung function, but many people have no symptoms, so a yearly oral glucose tolerance test is recommended from age 10.

Insulin is the treatment of choice. Unlike advice for other types of diabetes, people with Cystic fibrosis-related diabetes should keep following the high-energy, high-fat cystic fibrosis eating plan and spread carbohydrate foods across the day, rather than restricting their diet. Good glucose management is linked to better weight, nutrition and lung function. Care is shared between the cystic fibrosis team, a diabetes educator and a dietitian.