The Huffington Post in the US interviewed the US Alpha-1 Foundation president & CEO John Walsh as well as Richard Johnson, a finalist for the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award, about Alpha-1 and Richards’s campaign to win this prestigious humanitarian this week (November 19th).
Richard has been fighting to raise awareness and find a cure for children with Alpha-1 and if successful he will win $100,000 for research into Alpha-1. Richard has already provided a huge awareness boost for Alpha-1 at a national level through his efforts.
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.
WhatisAlpha-1AntitrypsinDeficiency?
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).
HowDoIGetTested?
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
Huffington Post Interview – Fighting For An Alpha-1 Cure
The Huffington Post in the US interviewed the US Alpha-1 Foundation president & CEO John Walsh as well as Richard Johnson, a finalist for the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award, about Alpha-1 and Richards’s campaign to win this prestigious humanitarian this week (November 19th).
Richard has been fighting to raise awareness and find a cure for children with Alpha-1 and if successful he will win $100,000 for research into Alpha-1. Richard has already provided a huge awareness boost for Alpha-1 at a national level through his efforts.
The interview can be seen here.
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