The opening of a dedicated centre for adults with cystic fibrosis (CF) in a Dublin hospital in 2012 has ensured that patients receive ‘optimal treatment in the most effective way', a leading doctor has claimed.

The National Referral Centre for Adult Cystic Fibrosis Patients opened in St Vincent's University Hospital in 2012. It includes a 20-bed dedicated CF inpatient facility, with capacity to increase to 34 beds, and a daycare centre where outpatient reviews are held.

According to statistics issued by the hospital, over 340 patients are currently attending the centre.

Last year, over 450 CF patients were admitted to the hospital and 1,500 attended its dedicated CF day ward.

CF is Ireland's most common life-threatening inherited disease. There are around 1,200 people in Ireland with CF and this country has the highest prevalence and the most severe types of CF in the world.

The condition affects the glands, damaging many organs including the lungs, pancreas, digestive tract and reproductive system, impacting breathing, digestion and reproduction. It causes thick sticky mucus to be produced, blocking the bronchial tubes and preventing the body's natural enzymes from digesting food.

According to consultant respiratory physician, Dr Ed McKone, the opening of the centre in 2012 ‘substantially improved the ability of our CF multidisciplinary team to look after our patients with CF'.

"With both rapid access to inpatient beds to start treatment immediately, as well as a safe and private environment to receive antibiotics and carry out airway clearance, this ensures the optimal treatment is delivered in the most effective way," he pointed out.

He said that there is expected to be a 65% increase in the number of adult patients with CF by 2025 and it is essential that they receive appropriate care.

"Patients that need admission to St Vincent's are no longer admitted through the Emergency Department, which for CF patients can increase the risk of cross infection, but are now rapidly reviewed in the CF day care centre and admitted immediately for IV antibiotic therapy," he explained.

Meanwhile, the centre is also one of Europe's leading CF centres, with a very active clinical research programme. Patients are currently participating in three separate clinical drug trials.

"St Vincent's is a major referral centre for US and European clinical trials with leadership roles in clinical trial programs investigating CFTR correctors (new treatments that target the cause of CF) and inhaled antibiotics.

"We have completed eight clinical trials in the past five years, which indicates the level of research being undertaken into the treatment of CF. It is to be hoped that in the next few years we will see a significant breakthrough in the treatment of CF that will improve and lengthen the lives of those living with disease," Dr McKone added.

The figures were released by the hospital to coincide with CF Awareness Week 2016, which runs until April 17.