Skip to content
My WebMD Sign In, Sign Up

COPD Health Center

Font Size
A
A
A

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Genetic Testing - Should I Be Tested?

The decision to have the test is personal. You may have emotional, financial, and family reasons for taking or not taking the test.

You may choose to have the test because:

Recommended Related to COPD

6 Quit-Smoking Tips for COPD

Quitting smoking is a top priority for all smokers, but if you have COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) it's even more urgent. Here's why: If you quit, it might be possible to slow down the disease and lessen the toll it takes on your breathing, but only if you cut out cigarettes permanently -- and soon. Here's how to do it, starting today.

Read the 6 Quit-Smoking Tips for COPD article > >

  • You have unexplained lung problems and want to know whether you have this condition.
  • Other people in your family have AAT deficiency.
  • Other people in your family have unexplained lung disease or liver disease.
  • You want to take steps to protect your health if you find out you have the condition.
  • You would be relieved to know that you do not have the changed gene.
  • You would change your decision about having children because of test results.
  • Your insurance would pay for the test.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: May 08, 2008
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
Next Article:

Today in COPD

chest x-ray
SLIDESHOW
Lung Disease Health Check
HEALTH CHECK
 
Senior woman stretching
Article
man with inhaler
Quiz
 
Bronchitis Overview
SLIDESHOW
Household Hazards For People With Copd
ARTICLE
 
Living With Copd
VIDEO
Healthy Home Health Check
HEALTH CHECK
 
Energy Boosting Foods
Slideshow
10 Worst Asthma Cities
SLIDESHOW
 
lung cancer overview slideshow
SLIDESHOW
Hot Tub Disease
VIDEO
 

WebMD Special Sections