Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that affects the respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects approximately 70,000 people in the United States alone, making it one of the most common life-threatening genetic disorders. With no cure currently available, treatment for CF focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. However, raising awareness about the disease and funding research for a cure are crucial to improving outcomes for individuals with CF. One innovative way to achieve both goals is through video games. In 2017, a team of game developers created the Iron Lung video game, which raises awareness about CF and funds research for the disease.
What is Cystic Fibrosis?
CF is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. This gene codes for a protein that helps regulate the movement of salt and water in and out of cells. In CF, these mutations cause thick, sticky mucus to build up in various organs, including the lungs, pancreas, liver, and reproductive system. The mucus blocks airways, making it difficult for individuals with CF to breathe, and can lead to chronic lung infections. In the pancreas, the thick mucus obstructs the ducts, preventing enzymes from reaching the small intestine to aid in digestion. This leads to malnutrition and other gastrointestinal problems. CF also affects the reproductive system, leading to infertility in both men and women.
The Iron Lung Video Game
The Iron Lung video game was developed by a team of game developers from around the world, who came together to create a game that would help raise awareness about CF and fund research for the disease. The game is a single-player platformer that tells the story of a young girl named Lily who suffers from CF. Players must navigate through different levels of the game, each of which represents a different stage of CF. In one level, players help Lily clear mucus from her lungs so she can breathe more easily. In another level, players guide Lily to foods that are easy to digest.
The game also features educational content about CF, including information about the disease, its symptoms, and how it is diagnosed and treated. Players can learn more about CF by interacting with various characters in the game, such as doctors and nurses who are working to treat the disease. The game’s success has inspired other game developers to create games that raise awareness about important social causes and fund research for these causes.
The Impact of the Iron Lung Video Game
The Iron Lung video game has had a significant impact on raising awareness about CF and funding research for the disease. The game was downloaded over 100,000 times in its first month of release, and it raised over $25,000 in donations for CF research. The success of the Iron Lung video game has inspired other game developers to create games that raise awareness about important social causes and fund research for these causes. For example, a team of game developers from Spain created a game called “Cancer Awareness” that teaches players about cancer and how to prevent it. Another game called “Gender Equality” teaches players about gender inequality and the importance of equality in society.
Conclusion
The Iron Lung video game is a great example of how games can be used to raise awareness about important social causes and fund research for these causes. By creating a fun and engaging game that educates players about CF, the team of game developers was able to not only entertain players but also make a real impact on the lives of people with the disease. The success of the Iron Lung video game has inspired other game developers to create games that raise awareness about important social causes, and we can expect to see more of these games in the future.
