Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency can affect people of all ethnic backgrounds, but it is more common in people whose families' originate from Europe. That means that people whose families originated from Europe – regardless of whether they now live in North America, Australia, Africa, or anywhere – are at risk for being Alpha-1 carriers.

Studies have also shown that certain gene changes related to Alpha-1 are more common in certain populations. For example, someone of Scandinavian descent has a greater chance of having one of the two genetic changes commonly tested for – S and Z – than someone of Asian descent.

The following lists – from most common to least common – how frequently Alpha-1 is found in certain regions of the world:

• Europe
• North America
• Australia/New Zealand
• East Asia

Scientists believe that Alpha-1 may be more common than previously thought in people whose families come from the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast and Central Asia. Currently, no large studies have been done to estimate the frequency of Alpha-1 in South America. Additional studies are needed to determine how common Alpha-1 is among these groups.

When considering your risk for Alpha-1, it is important to consider both your family medical history and your ethnic background.