A Genetic disorder that may result in COPD, emphysema or irreversible asthma
(Port Jefferson, NY) If you suffer from COPD, emphysema or irreversible asthma you may have a genetic disorder called Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (also referred to as Alpha-1). Smokers, firefighters and others who are exposed to lung irritants may increase their risk of lung disease particularly if they have undiagnosed Alpha-1.
John T. Mather Memorial Hospital is offering free Alpha-1 screening on Saturday, July 27, 9 am-noon, in Conference Rooms 1 and 2. No appointment is necessary. For more information, call 631-476-2723.
Alpha-1 is an inherited disorder that may result in serious lung disease in adults. One of the main functions of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAT) is to protect the lungs from injury caused by inhaled irritants such as tobacco smoke and other environmental pollutants.
Screening for Alpha-1 is a simple finger stick. Diagnosis is made by a simple blood test. Treatment of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency in patients who are symptomatic can slow or stop the progression of lung disease. You may also learn if you are a carrier of the Alpha-1 gene.
The American Thoracic Society recommends testing for:
- All adults with symptomatic emphysema regardless of smoking history
- All adults with symptomatic COPD regardless of smoking history
- All adults with symptomatic asthma whose airflow obstruction is incompletely reversible after bronchodilator therapy.
- Asymptomatic patients with persistent obstruction on pulmonary function tests with identifiable risk factors (smoking, occupational exposure, etc.)
The Alpha-1 Foundation also recommends testing for those with:
- Chronic liver disease regardless of smoking history
- Unexplained liver disease in infants and children
- The skin disease panniculitis
- Siblings of those found to have Alpha-1
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of testing with your healthcare provider.
John T. Mather Memorial Hospital is an accredited 248-bed, non-profit community hospital dedicated to providing a wide spectrum of high quality healthcare services to Suffolk County residents, showing compassion and respect and treating each patient in the manner we would wish for our loved ones.
For further information about Mather Hospital, visit www.matherhospital.org or “Like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/matherhospital.
