I have genetic Primary Immune Defiency. I have Bronciectasis, a different lung disease. My dad had COPD
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March 24 (edited)
Is genetic COPD real?
Yes, genetic COPD is absolutely real. It's caused by a condition called alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency (alpha-1), which is an inherited genetic disorder that runs in families.
People with alpha-1 produce limited amounts of a protective protein called alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT). This protein normally Show Full Answer
Is genetic COPD real?
Yes, genetic COPD is absolutely real. It's caused by a condition called alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency (alpha-1), which is an inherited genetic disorder that runs in families.
People with alpha-1 produce limited amounts of a protective protein called alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT). This protein normally helps protect your lungs from damage. When you don't have enough of it, your lungs become vulnerable to damage that can lead to COPD.
Here's what makes alpha-1 unique:
- It affects between 80,000 and 100,000 people in the United States
- About 5 percent of people diagnosed with COPD have alpha-1
- An estimated 90 percent of those with alpha-1 don't know they have it
- People with alpha-1 can develop COPD even if they've never smoked
Alpha-1 is diagnosed through a simple blood test that checks for the genetic mutation. If you have COPD, it's recommended that you be tested for alpha-1 regardless of your age or smoking history.
The condition is more common among people of European ancestry and is more likely if you have a family history of the disorder, especially in parents, siblings, or children.
March 24
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