The Cystic Fibrosis Trust is the major funder of Cystic Fibrosis research in the UK. Across the UK and indeed the world, there are many other reputable scientists, clinicians, pharmaceutical companies and CF charites who also undertake research into different aspects of Cystic Fibrosis.

Members of the CF Trust and scientists whose work in CF is funded by the Trust attend the major European and North American CF conferences to ensure that we, and you, stay up to date with work in the world of Cystic Fibrosis research.

Unfortunately, there are also a number of websites offering unscientific and unproven 'treatments' for Cystic Fibrosis, which if taken instead of the proper regimen, could prove harmful. It is very important that people with CF follow the advice of their CF team in regard to their treatment. For an excellent look at the world of research and reporting, visit the Sense about Science website.

Another thing to be aware of is that some institutions send out press releases of very basic science, which are then picked up by newpapers and presented as if there is a new 'cure' or treatment for Cystic Fibrosis. We believe this is unfair and people should be very cautious about things they read in the popular press as they may be many years from being tested in people and may not even get that far.

We do not publish reports or comments on all CF research that takes place worldwide because much of it is at a very early stage and we do not want to raise the expectations of the CF community with constant stories of 'breakthrough' discoveries. When there is a genuine advance, we do of course let the CF community know on our website, through CF Today and CF Now.

You can find our responses to various stories in Behind the Headlines in our press office. You can also find further information on other CF research bodies on our links page.