What do asthma, lung and liver disease have in common? They can all be caused by a common inherited disorder called Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

About 116 million people worldwide - and 1 in every 10 to 33 Americans - are Alpha-1 carriers.

The good news is that if Alpha-1 is diagnosed early, treatment can be easy and successful. With early detection people with Alpha-1 can live healthier, longer lives. Yet, many people do not know that Alpha-1 may be causing their medical problems.

Genetic testing can tell if you have any of the most common genetic changes related to Alpha-1. If so, you can:

• get appropriate screening
• make treatment decisions
• reduce lifestyle risks
• identify at-risk family members
• make informed family planning decisions.