Improving lung function in adolescents with CF by tracking annual rate of lung function decline.

Background: For patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), sustaining lung function through the adolescent years is crucial to slow the progressive decline that leads to significant morbidity and early mortality. This holds true for patients with high per cent predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s (ppFEV), as they may receive less vigilant monitoring and treatment. Early identification of lung function decline followed by aggressive treatment can lead to preservation of lung function.