How to Answer: What do you know about cystic fibrosis?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Medical Research - Genome job interview.
24. What do you know about cystic fibrosis?
How to Answer
Until late in the 20th century, few people with cystic fibrosis lived beyond childhood. Improvements in medical care have increased life expectancy by decades. Share any knowledge you have of this disorder with the interviewer.
1st Answer Example
"Cystic fibrosis is an uncommon genetic disorder. It primarily affects the respiratory and digestive systems. Symptoms often include chronic cough, lung infections, and shortness of breath. Children with cystic fibrosis may also have trouble gaining weight and growing."
2nd Answer Example
"Cystic fibrosis is a rare disease. The most affected group is Caucasians of northern European ancestry. Since 2010, it has been mandatory for all doctors in the United States to screen newborns for cystic fibrosis. The test involves collecting a blood sample from a heel prick. A positive test can be followed up with a "sweat test" to measure the amount of salt in the sweat, which can help secure the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis."