Centre to test for lung disorder first in Europe

IRELAND has established the first centre in Europe to test for a serious life-threatening hereditary disorder called Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency.

Thousands of people in Ireland believed to carry the deficient gene may develop the serious lung disorder or pass the disorder onto their children.

The centre, based at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, is offering a simple blood test to anyone suffering from severe respiratory conditions and those with chronic liver problems.