Be it resolved airway clearance cannot and should not be replaced by exercise in the era of CFTR modulators–Summary of a Pro/Con debate

Abstract

Airway clearance to clear excessive sputum has long been a key part of cystic fibrosis care, however the introduction of highly effective modulator medications where many people with CF are experiencing reduced sputum loads, has raised a question about its necessity. Specifically, questions are being asked as to if exercise, historically an adjunct to airway clearance, could become a replacement. This short communication summarizes a debate that was held at the 2024 North American Cystic Fibrosis Conference, summarizing the key arguments for and against the replacement of traditional airway clearance with exercise.