Demographic and social characteristics of adults with cystic fibrosis in the United Kingdom.

OBJECTIVE To obtain information about social and demographic characteristics and lifestyle of adult patients with cystic fibrosis, including those who do not attend major specialist clinics. DESIGN Confidential self completion postal questionnaire to adult patients with cystic fibrosis, asking about social and demographic characteristics, social class and occupation, employment, education, insurance and social security benefits, symptom severity, and medical care. SETTING National association for adults with cystic fibrosis. SUBJECTS 1052 adult members of the Association of Cystic Fibrosis Adults UK, accounting for 68% of those with cystic fibrosis in the United Kingdom population over 16 years of age and over 80% of those over 25 in June 1990. RESULTS The response rate was 82% (397 women, 423 men). Most adults with cystic fibrosis were found to be living fulfilling lives into adulthood. Significantly fewer men were married or cohabiting than women (110 (26%) men, 175 (44%) women). 420 (55%) responders were working, and of these 235 (56%) had less than two weeks' sick leave a year. Half of those not employed gave ill health as the reason. Revealing that they had cystic fibrosis at job interviews reduced likelihood of being employed for those with mild to moderate disease. People with cystic fibrosis had been less successful than the general population in achieving O level or equivalent qualifications, but more successful in achieving A level or higher qualifications. Achievement of any qualifications enhanced employment prospects irrespective of disease severity. CONCLUSION Contrary to an image of chronic ill health and disability, a high proportion of adults with cystic fibrosis are living full and productive lives.