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Alpha-1 Suite, RCSI Building, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
Charity Number CHY22304
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2021 © Copyright Alpha-1 Foundation Ireland. All rights reserved.
Alpha-1 Suite, RCSI Building, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
Charity Number CHY22304
Site Developed & Maintained by Ecom-Ireland
2021 © Copyright Alpha-1 Foundation Ireland. All rights reserved.
Smoking and Alpha-1
Smoking is the number one risk factor for lung disease in those born with Alpha-1. The European Lung Foundation and the European Respiratory Society describe the benefits of quitting smoking in two excellent diagrams. Remember no matter how late in life one quits there are benefits to be gained. Avoiding smoking at all costs is incredibly important for anyone with Alpha-1. This is because if you have Alpha-1 and are a smoker, you will develop severe early onset lung disease in the form of COPD or emphysema.
Find out more at: www.healthylungsforlife.or
Smoking Cessation
Top Ten Tips For Quitting Smoking
Top 10 Reasons to Quit
Top 10 Smoking Myths
Ask The Experts
Roisin Thursan, Smoking Cessation Officer and Michelle McGettigan, Helath Promotion Officer, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9
For more information you can contact the National Smokers Quitline (1850 201 203) or view websites such as www.quit.ie or www.cancer.ie. There is also smoking cessation support available on www.facebook.com/HSEquit.
Useful Numbers:
National Smoker’s Quitline: For help quitting smoking, call the National Smoker’s Quitline on Callsave 1850-201-203.
Quit.ie: For help, information and advice on quitting smoking, visit www.quit.ie or www.cancer.ie
Get Ireland Active: For information on getting active and managing your weight, visit www.getirelandactive.ie
Info Centre
What is Alpha-1 Antitrypsin?
Alpha-1 antitrypsin is a vital protein produced by the liver to protect the lungs. It provides protection from the harmful effects of infections and inhaled irritants, particularly tobacco smoke. It can be easily measured by a simple blood test.
What is Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency?
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (Alpha-1) is a genetic condition which, after cystic fibrosis, is the commonest genetic disorder in Ireland. It severely affects more than 15,000 people, with another 250,000 carriers also at risk of lung and liver disease on the island of Ireland. It is a proven genetic risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
How Do I Get Tested?
The Alpha-1 Foundation Ireland provides free testing for Alpha-1 as part of a national screening programme which is funded by the HSE. It is a simple blood test. For more details ring 01-8093871 or email alpha1@rcsi.ie