About Alpha-1

Alpha-1 antitrypsin (sometimes called AAT) is made in the liver by the body. It protects the lungs from damage due to things like infection or smoke. ^1,2

If you have Alpha-1, you have very low levels of Alpha-1 antitrypsin, meaning that your lungs don't have the same protection as those of healthy people. You also have a higher risk for emphysema. ^1,2

Alpha-1 is an inherited disease. It is often confused with asthma or smoking-related COPD (chronic bronchitis or emphysema). ^1,2

Because Alpha-1 is so much like asthma, it can take a long time to identify. On average, patients with Alpha-1 will see 3 doctors over 7 years before they are diagnosed. ²

This is because the symptoms of Alpha-1 and asthma are almost the same ¹:

Shortness of breath
Long-term cough
Problems breathing
Wheezing

Could your symptoms be caused by Alpha-1? Click here to find out.

1.	Alpha-1 Foundation - What is Alpha-1? Alpha-1 Fast Facts. Available at: Alphaone.org. Accessed on September 16, 2009.
2.	COPD International Network-You Are Not Alone. Available at: http://www.copdinternational.com/Library/alpha-1.htm. Accessed on September 16, 2009.