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.
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.
Drive 4 Alpha-1
Congratulations to Carine and Niall Maher who successfully completed the RETRO Cannonball Rally on July 12-13. On their scenic but adrenaline-packed “Drive 4 Alpha-1” they raced from Kinsale to Bunratty to raise awareness of Alpha-1.
Starting in Kinsale on Friday July 12th they raced through Clonakilty, Roscarbery, Skibbereen, Bantry, Healy Pass, Kenmare, Molls Gap, Inch Beach, Dingle, Slea Head, Conor Pass, Tralee and finished (exhausted but in one piece) at Bunratty Castle on Saturday July 13th. A huge thank you to Carine and Niall for taking on this challenge and raising awareness of Alpha-1 along the way.
Hopefully more people will have heard of Alpha-1 after their exploits throughout south west Ireland.
If anyone else would like to take part in an event for Alpha-1 do let us know at alpha1@rcsi.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