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| Free Alpha-1 Screening |
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Alpha One Foundation can give support and advice in relation to testing for Alpha-1. There is no charge for the kit or the test, either to the person or their GP. The test procedure is as follows: 1. You or your doctor takes a blood sample either from a finger and applies it a special paper. 2. Once this has dried it is placed in a protective envelope for the safe transit of blood products and posted to the testing laboratory. Please ensure you included your contact details and that of your doctor. 3. Depending on the workload the test results should be returned up to 4 weeks.
For full details please contact Kitty O’Connor Clinical Research Nurse, The Alpha One Foundation, RCSI Education & Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9. Phone: 01-8093871 or e-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it You can see all the test steps on the attachment below
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What is Alpha-1 Antitrypsin?
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin is an important protein produced by the liver, which is released into the bloodstream and travels to the lungs. Once inside the lungs it provides protection from the destructive effects of infections and harmful irritants, particularly tobacco smoke.
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (Alpha-1) is a genetic condition which, along with cystic fibrosis, is the commonest genetic lung disease in Ireland. It severely affects more than 2,000 people nationally, with another 10,000 individuals also at risk of lung and liver disease. It is the only proven genetic risk factor for COPD.