Capital District Times

Albany Medical Center's adult Cystic Fibrosis Care Center has been serving patients aged 18 and older with cystic fibrosis for over twenty years. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that causes thick mucus to accumulate in the lungs, pancreas, and other organs, affecting digestion and breathing.

"There is still no cure, but new medications and therapies have dramatically improved the quality of life for CF patients, such that they're now living longer, healthier lives," said Boris Shkolnik, MD, pulmonologist and director of the center.

The center recently received a 2024 Outstanding Care Center Partnership Award from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. The team includes physicians, a nurse practitioner, social worker, respiratory therapist, and clinical researchers.

Dr. Shkolnik highlighted the importance of clinical studies in advancing CF treatment. The research team works with 10 to 20 patients annually on various studies related to pancreatic function and nutrition issues caused by CF. "Aside from the lungs, CF can strongly affect pancreatic function and cause serious nutrition and malabsorption issues," said Annie DeNero, RN, BSN, ACRN.

The center has participated in studies on inhaled antibiotics and new breathing devices as well as trials for major drugs like Kalydeco, Orkambi, and Trikafta. "Clinical trials have definitely changed the landscape of CF outcomes with the approval of new treatments and devices – which is good news for patients," DeNero added.

Located near Albany Med’s main campus within the Pulmonary clinic, it is one of ten adult Cystic Fibrosis Foundation-accredited care centers in New York. The team cares for about 100 patients ranging from late teens to early 80s. A weekly clinic for CF patients takes place on Wednesday mornings. New patients are welcome; appointments can be made by calling 518-262-5196.