AlphaNet Canada

08/28/2026

Gum disease starts when a build-up of bacteria, called plaque, collects at the gum line. Over time, this hardens into calcium deposits called calculus or tartar. With poor oral care, these bacteria can cause swelling of the gums, or gingivitis. They may end up penetrating the gum line and spreading into the underlying bone. Fortunately, with proper oral care, gum disease can be controlled or even reversed.

To learn more, visit the Big Fat Reference Guide: https://bfrg.alphanet.org/s/article/2-10-6-oral-hygiene-and-overall-health-for-alphas

08/20/2026

Using oxygen at home? These home oxygen safety reminders can help protect your home and family.

• Keep oxygen canisters 1.5–3 metres (5–10 feet) from gas stoves, fireplaces, wood stoves, candles and other open flames.
• Make sure no one smokes around you while oxygen is in use.
• Secure cylinders so they cannot be knocked over, and keep tubing clear of furniture and walkways.

Oxygen can make fires easier to start and spread. Always follow your equipment supplier’s safety instructions, and never try to repair broken equipment yourself.

Save or share these reminders with someone who uses home oxygen.

Learn more in “Home Oxygen Safety Tips” in the BFRG:
https://bfrg.alphanet.org/s/article/2-7-8-home-oxygen-safety-tips

08/14/2026

Help shape the future of family screening for Alpha-1 in Canada.

AlphaNet Canada is preparing to launch a new pilot program focused on family screening for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD), and we want to hear directly from individuals and families affected by Alpha-1.

The survey is completely anonymous and takes only a few minutes to complete. Your feedback will help inform the development of this important initiative.

Take the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FLH57BQ

Your voice matters. Thank you for helping us shape the future of family screening for Canadians living with Alpha-1.

08/13/2026

To learn more, visit the Big Fat Reference Guide: https://bfrg.alphanet.org/s/article/2-10-6-oral-hygiene-and-overall-health-for-alphas

08/04/2026

When Alpha-1-related lung damage makes it difficult for the body to get enough oxygen, the effects can extend beyond the lungs. For people with severe hypoxemia, prescribed oxygen therapy may help improve survival, support physical activity, and reduce shortness of breath during activity.

Oxygen needs are different for everyone. Speak with your healthcare provider before starting or changing oxygen therapy.

Learn more at bfrg.alphanet.org by reading ""Oxygen Therapy Saves Lives"" here: https://bfrg.alphanet.org/s/article/2-7-1-oxygen-therapy-saves-lives

07/30/2026

Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association launched a global survey to learn more about what patients know regarding plasma-derived medicines and plasma donation.

Take the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/IPAWpatientsurvey

Patient voices are essential to strengthening awareness and understanding of plasma-derived medicines. That's why PPTA is launching a global survey to better understand patients' knowledge of plasma-derived medicines and plasma donation.

In this survey -- which will take less than 5 minutes to complete -- patients, caregivers, and providers can share the impact of plasma-derived medicines and their understanding of the plasma donation process that results in the creation of lifesaving medicines.

Please take a few minutes to complete the Global Survey on Plasma-Derived Medicines and Donations. Your perspective can help improve awareness, education, and patient access. The survey is available in the following languages: English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Czech, Hungarian, and Polish.

Take the survey here:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/IPAWpatientsurvey

Want to help get the word out? Download a shareable toolkit here:
https://spaces.hightail.com/receive/OGeWliKSYb

07/28/2026

Hepatitis C can affect the liver without causing noticeable symptoms, so many people may not know they have it.

For individuals with Alpha-1, understanding hepatitis prevention, vaccination, and testing can be an important part of protecting liver health. There are also other risks you may be able to manage, including alcohol use, smoking, metabolic syndrome, certain medications, and exposure to liver toxins.

This World Hepatitis Day, read more in “Risk Factors You Can Control” in the Big Fat Reference Guide: https://bfrg.alphanet.org/s/article/3-15-2-risk-factors-you-can-control

07/17/2026

Sleep looks different for everyone, but disruptions that affect your daytime function may be worth paying attention to.

Small changes, like keeping your room cool and quiet, limiting late drinks, and using your bed mainly for sleep, can help support better rest. If you are waking up often due to breathing changes, bathroom needs, or medication timing, talk with your healthcare team.

To learn more, visit bfrg.alphanet.org to access the Big Fat Reference Guide (BFRG).

07/15/2026

Wildfire smoke is affecting air quality across parts of Ontario today. For Alphas, taking steps to limit smoke exposure and protect the air inside your home is especially important. Save and share these wildfire smoke safety tips, and check your local AQHI for current conditions.

Wildfire smoke and poor air quality can be especially concerning for people living with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency.
AlphaNet Canada’s Wildfire Smoke Safety fact sheet includes practical information on reducing smoke exposure at home and outdoors, improving indoor air quality, preparing medications and inhalers, and managing augmentation therapy during wildfire events.

View the Wildfire Smoke Safety fact sheet here: https://alphanetcanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/AlphaNet-Canada-Wildfire-Smoke-Safety-Updated.pdf?fbclid=IwY2xjawSwwvBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETEzT2M0VVg5SDM0VDZwc2h0c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHhg7BhJUO8GdtebhJZzyIMXl0_pnOphKDlNg_3bab04FvOSDXgwgEXLB_C_t_aem_gbN4WMEdlQYK5syeD3ohGg

You can also check the Government of Canada’s Air Quality Health Index to view current and forecast air quality health risks in your area: https://weather.gc.ca/airquality/pages/index_e.html?utm_content=432167928&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&hss_channel=fbp-116398045064425

If your symptoms worsen, contact your healthcare team.

07/15/2026

Wildfire smoke can be a threat to your lung health no matter where you live. Here are 10 things you can do to help protect your lungs from the effects of wildfire smoke.