Gender Differences in Young Adults' Perceptions of Living With Cystic Fibrosis During the Transition to Adulthood: A Qualitative Investigation

Transition to adulthood has not been adequately studied in young adults with cystic fibrosis (CF). Technological advances have extended life expectancy into the thirties, making the young adult CF population a significant group to study. This qualitative study used focus groups to explore the transition into adulthood for female (n = 11) and male (n = 6) young adults with CF by focusing on how these young adults managed the shift in treatment responsibility, viewed their quality of life, and how they perceived their future. Results indicated gender differences in regards to treatment compliance and mental health/other health related problems, but no differences in future outlook.