UK distribution of cystic fibrosis
Take a look at our map showing how the cystic fibrosis (CF) population is distributed across the country, using anonymised 2022 data from the UK Cystic Fibrosis Registry.
We hope this map will be useful for people with cystic fibrosis and their families, as well as cystic fibrosis care teams, researchers, NHS commissioners and policy makers.
How to use the map
The maps below can used to see the number of people with CF in each postcode area of the UK or within the devolved nations (Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) and regions of England.
To switch between postcode area and region maps, use the yellow drop-down menu above the table. This will allow you to see the distribution of people with CF in your chosen area/region. The map on the left shows different postcode areas and the map on the right displays the devolved nations of the UK and regions of England. The table between the maps lists these totals.
To use the maps, either click on the area of the map you would like to see or click on the postcode area/region in the table to view the number of people with CF living there. After viewing a postcode area/region, you can return to the full UK view by clicking the same postcode area again, or by double clicking on any other postcode area. You can select multiple postcode areas/regions by holding down the control ("ctrl") key on your keyboard and clicking on the postcode areas/regions you wish to select. Areas you have selected will turn a darker shade of yellow.
To make the map bigger, use the full screen function in the bottom right hand corner, under the table.
If you have any problems viewing the map, take a look at the frequently asked questions below to ensure your web browser meets the minimum requirements.
Frequently asked questions
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Why are there fewer people with cystic fibrosis on this map than in the UK CF Registry Annual Data Report?
The total number of people shown on the map is less than the number we quote in our Annual Report as some people do not have a valid UK postcode in their Registry record. Additionally, in some postcode areas, there are fewer than five people with CF. In these cases, for data protection reasons, we use "<5" (fewer than 5) rather than giving an actual number.
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How exact are the numbers?
The map is based on a "data snapshot", so the map does not reflect any recent boundary changes or cases were people with CF have moved to a different postcode area. The numbers are approximate figures based on data that was available at a specific point in time. To see where people with cystic fibrosis receive treatment, please view our latest UK CF Registry Annual Report here.
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How are population, age and geographic boundaries defined in the map?
The following definitions were used to create the map...
- Population - everyone registered on the UK CF Registry in 2022
- Age - the person's age on the 31st December 2022
- Geographic boundaries were defined using the Office of National Statistics Postcode Directory (May 2023 update) ((https://geoportal.statistics.gov.uk/datasets/ons::ons-postcode-directory-may-2023/about).
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Can I reference the numbers elsewhere?
These numbers are in the public domain and free to use, as long as ‘UK CF Registry 2022’ is referenced. We’d love to hear how the map is being used, so please email [email protected] to let us know where and when you are referencing the information.
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How do I give feedback?
Please let us know what you think about this map, including anything you think we can improve on, or additional charts you’d like to see, by emailing [email protected].
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Can I view this map on mobile?
Yes, although for the best experience we recommend viewing through a desktop browser.
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Why isn't the map working?
If you do not have an up-to-date version of one of the following browsers, you may have difficulty viewing the map or be unable to see it.
Supported browsers:
- Microsoft Edge
- Internet Explorer 11
- Chrome Desktop
- Safari Mac
- Firefox Desktop