Although 1 in 25 people in the UK carry the Cystic Fibrosis gene, many do not know until they have a child with the disease. Once CF is suspected, there are conventional tests that can be done, to confirm the diagnosis. People suffering from CF have elevated levels of the protein trypsinogen in their blood, which can be tested for. Testing for this protein is part of the Newborn Blood Spot Screening Programme, for all babies born in the UK. An early diagnosis of CF allows treatment to begin immediately, which can be a great improvement to health in later life.