Why does cystic fibrosis-related diabetes occur?

• A. Autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells
• B. Mucus obstruction of pancreatic beta cells
• C. Insulin resistance due to obesity
• D. Nutritional deficiency causing Beta cell failure

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that cystic fibrosis–related diabetes comes from pancreatic damage caused by the CF disease process, not from autoimmunity or obesity-related insulin resistance. In CF, thick mucus blocks the pancreatic ducts, leading to inflammation and progressive fibrosis of the pancreas. This scarring damages the insulin-producing beta cells, reducing insulin secretion and causing hyperglycemia. The result is a diabetes form driven by impaired insulin production rather than autoimmune destruction or increased insulin resistance. Nutritional issues aren’t the primary cause; the diabetes stems from destruction of pancreatic tissue due to ductal blockage and fibrosis.