Alpha-1 Deficiency: Testing, Treatment, and Long-Term Care

In this episode of The Lung Health Champion, Arnelle Konde speaks with pulmonologist and critical care physician Dr. Mike Wells and physician associate Brian Bizik about alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, an underdiagnosed genetic condition that can affect the lungs and liver. They discuss why routine testing remains a challenge, available testing approaches, and the importance of helping individuals advocate for answers. The conversation also covers comprehensive management, augmentation therapy, family screening, long-term monitoring, and the role of peer and community support. Dr. Wells and Brian also examine emerging research, including gene-modifying therapies, and emphasize why making alpha-1 testing a routine part of COPD care can help identify more people who may benefit from additional evaluation and support.

Key Points From This Episode

[00:00:00] Highlights & Show Intro

[00:01:53] Establishing the Diagnosis

[00:06:51] AATD Testing Options

[00:11:28] Developing a Comprehensive Management Plan

[00:15:03] The Importance of Peer Support Services

[00:16:27] Managing the Alpha-1 Patient with COPD

[00:22:42] Long-Term Monitoring and Family Impact

[00:27:14] Upcoming Developments in Alpha-1 Care

[00:29:44] Final Takeaways

Links

This episode is proudly supported by Grifols. Find out more here.

The Lung Health Champion Podcast is brought to you by the COPD Foundation. Learn more at https://www.copdfoundation.org.

• Sign up for COPD Foundation's Newsletter:https://copdf.co/PRAXIS

Learn more about our guests:

• Brian Bizik on LinkedIn:
  https://www.linkedin.com/in/allergy/
• Dr. Mike Wells: https://scholars.uab.edu/665-james-wells

Learn more about Alpha-1: https://copdf.co/genetic-copd

• Order free Alpha-1 testing kits: https://copdf.co/Test-Alpha-1-podcast

The receipt of this free testing service does not create any expectation or obligation on your part to purchase or use any product or service offered by any manufacturer.

Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant:https://thepodcastconsultant.com

The podcast is provided by the COPD Foundation as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.