Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (Alpha-1) is a genetic condition which can cause lung, liver, and skin disease. It severely affects more than 15,000 people, with another 250,000 carriers also at risk on the island of Ireland. Alpha-1 most often leads to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and people with Alpha-1 should avoid smoking at all costs.

Geraldine Kelly who is CEO of the Alpha 1 Foundation will talk with Debbie McMahon today about the affects of Alpha 1 as well as signs & symptoms.