This week is Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Week and today (Friday 16 June) is Wear Yellow Day.

Martin Whitfield MSP has been demonstrating his support for the week and the important campaigning, fundraising and research undertaken by the Cystic Fibrosis Trust by wearing the charity’s pin badge at parliament.

CF is a genetic condition that causes the lungs and digestive system to become clogged with mucus. It affects approximately 11,000 people in the UK, including roughly 1,000 people in Scotland. It is an invisible illness and therefore does not get the attention it deserves.

As well as CF affecting people physically and mentally, it also affects them financially. According to a recent report conducted by the University of Bristol, the additional cost of living with CF is over £6,500 per year.

Mr Whitfield is joining parliamentary colleagues in helping to raise awareness of CF and especially the importance of research into the condition, which is the theme of this year’s CF Week.

Martin Whitfield MSP said:

“CF is a life shortening condition which affects thousands of people across the UK and can have a significant impact on the daily lives of those living with it.

“Thanks to research, which is the theme of this year’s Cystic Fibrosis Week, the median age of death for someone with cystic fibrosis has increased from 31 in 2016 to 38 in 2021. However, this is still tragically young and highlights why research must continue to be supported.

“That’s why I’m backing calls for the Scottish Government and parliament to do everything possible to help encourage the development of new CF drugs and reduce the financial burden of living with CF.”

Find out more about CF Week and the work of the CF Trust at www.cysticfibrosis.org.uk/get-involved/fundraising/cf-week.