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Patients Actress Melissa Biggs, Alpha-1 spokesperson

Thought Leadership Key Issues Dialogue: Alpha-1

Related Information Test Today. Change Tomorrow.

Asthma, emphysema, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are all breathing problems, and they have something else in common: They may be symptoms of
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

Alpha-1 deficiency, also known as Alpha-1 or AATD, is a genetic form of COPD. CSL Behring provides an alpha₁ proteinase inhibitor to treat this chronic lung disease. Alpha₁ antitrypsin is a protein produced in the liver that helps protect the lungs. Alpha₁ deficiency is a condition in which a person has little or no alpha₁ antitrypsin.

Our alpha₁ proteinase inhibitor Zemaira® is indicated for chronic augmentation and maintenance therapy in adults with alpha-1 deficiency and clinical evidence of emphysema.

Alpha-1 is often misdiagnosed as asthma or emphysema because the symptoms are similar: shortness of breath, chronic cough, difficulty breathing, and wheezing.¹ It takes an average of 8.3 years for patients to be diagnosed². During that time, lung damage progresses. Treatment for COPD alone is not sufficient to thwart the gradual decline of lung function that occurs in patients with underlying alpha₁ deficiency³. If untreated, Alpha-1 can cause permanent damage to the lungs. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to help those with Alpha-1 have the fullest life possible.

CSL Behring is championing an effort called Test Today. Change Tomorrow., fostering national education and support for early detection and treatment of alpha₁ deficiency. This initiative features programs and support services for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.

References
1. Alpha-1 Foundation - What is Alpha-1? Alpha-1 Fast Facts. Available at: Alphaone.org.
2. Campos MA, Wanner A, Zhang G, Sandhaus RA. Chest. 2005;128(3):1179-1186.
3. Ranes J, Stoller JK. A review of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency. Semin Respir Crit Care Med. 2005;26:154-166.