Grifols introduces AlphaID™, a free cheek swab to screen for Alpha-1, the most common genetic form of COPD

BARCELONA, Spain, Nov. 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Grifols (GRFGRFS, a leading global producer of plasma-derived medicines and a leader in the development of innovative diagnostic solutions, has now introduced AlphaID™, a new, simple cheek swab that can be used by physicians to screen patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (Alpha-1), a rare, life-threatening genetic condition.

Now available for distribution in the U.S., the AlphaID™ cheek swab, which is completely free from ordering to results, is a simple way for physicians and healthcare providers to obtain a sufficient oral sample for Alpha-1 screening, taking only seconds to collect.

AlphaID™ utilizes an FDA-approved genotyping assay to screen for the 14 most prevalently reported genetic mutations associated with Alpha-1, including the S, Z, F, I alleles, as well as rare and null alleles, helping detect patients who are at risk for this treatable condition. AlphaID™ provides personal, comprehensive results within a week from the time the sample is sent in for screening.

"AlphaID™ is an innovative, convenient way for patients to be screened for Alpha-1, which could mean earlier diagnosis and management of COPD," said Angela Davis, M.D., Global Medical Director, Medical Affairs and Scientific Intelligence, Grifols. "For more than 20 years, Grifols has been a leader in Alpha-1 screening and is dedicated to helping patients understand their condition and make informed treatment decisions."

For patients who are found to have an at-risk genotype per the cheek swab results, Grifols offers an additional free test, known as AlphaID™ CONFIRM, to verify the patient's genotype and alpha-1 antitrypsin blood level to complete the diagnosis. AlphaID™ CONFIRM is a simple fingerstick blood collection kit, providing definitive and accurate results to patients who test positive with AlphaID™.

"Alpha-1 antitrypsin is a protective protein that plays a critical role in safeguarding the lungs, making it important to screen COPD patients for a deficiency," said Dr. Robert Sandhaus, Professor of Medicine, Director, Alpha-1 Program, National Jewish Health. "Severe Alpha-1 is estimated to affect over 100,000 people in the U.S. alone, although more than 90% of individuals remain undiagnosed, even though a simple screening test will quickly detect the condition."

AlphaID™ was developed jointly by Grifols' Bioscience and Diagnostic divisions, including the company's Progenika unit, a leader in the diagnosis of genetic complex diseases.   

November marks National COPD Awareness Month, including COPD and genetic COPD due to Alpha-1. COPD is a condition that describes multiple lung diseases such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Alpha-1 is often not diagnosed because its symptoms are similar to COPD and asthma.

Only a physician or healthcare provider can make a diagnosis of Alpha-1. To learn more about AlphaID™ and the importance of testing for Alpha-1, please visit requestalphaid.com.   

About Grifols

Grifols is a global healthcare company founded in Barcelona in 1909 committed to improving the health and well-being of people around the world. Its four divisions – Bioscience, Diagnostic, Hospital and Bio Supplies – develop, produce and market innovative solutions and services that are sold in more than 100 countries.

Pioneers in the plasma industry, Grifols operates a growing network of donation centers worldwide. It transforms collected plasma into essential medicines to treat rare, chronic and, at times, life-threatening conditions. As a recognized leader in transfusion medicine, Grifols also offers a comprehensive portfolio of solutions designed to enhance safety from donation to transfusion. In addition, the company supplies tools, information and services that enable hospitals, pharmacies and healthcare professionals to efficiently deliver expert medical care.

Grifols, with more than 24,000 employees in 30 countries, is committed to a sustainable business model that sets the standard for continuous innovation, quality, safety and ethical leadership.

The company's class A shares are listed on the Spanish Stock Exchange, where they are part of the Ibex-35 GRF. Grifols non-voting class B shares are listed on the Mercado Continuo GRF and on the U.S. NASDAQ through ADRs GRFS.

For more information, please visit www.grifols.com

SOURCE Grifols