VeganMed, Inc.
Jun 27, 2023
A survey presented at the DIA's Global Annual Meeting in Boston (June 2023) highlights the severe challenges faced by Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) patients due to alpha-gal sugar molecules found in mammalian products.
Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS), a severe allergic reaction to alpha-gal sugar molecule found in mammalian products, is exposing patients to significant medication and health products related challenges, according to a survey presented at the DIA's Global Annual Meeting in Boston (June 2023). The research sheds light on the distressing reality faced by patients with AGS, demanding immediate attention from the pharmaceutical industry and healthcare providers.
The study involved 559 participants, predominantly females (87%) with a mean age of 52 years and was led by Dr. Jasmine Uchi, a pharmacist and Director of Medical Affairs/Operations at VeganMed, Inc. It aimed to assess the medication and health product-related challenges experienced by AGS patients.
Based on the survey, nearly 50% of respondents had experienced anaphylactic reactions to alpha-gal-containing health products. This finding emphasizes the potential life-threatening nature of AGS and the urgent need for transparent ingredient labeling.
“The results highlight the urgent need for transparent labeling for this vulnerable patient population.” said Dr. Uchi,.
Interestingly, the study also revealed that a significant majority of respondents (91.8%) had to modify their medications due to their AGS diagnosis. Patients reported struggling to find alpha-gal safe products, leading to concerns regarding allergic reactions and overall quality of life. AGS patients find it extremely difficult (4.6 out of 5) to find alpha-gal free medications and constantly looking up ingredient information also significantly impacted quality of life (4.2 out of 5).
As would be expected, 99.6% of respondents had previously reacted to food containing mammalian-derived ingredients, but 75.8% also reacted to medications, dental/surgical products (28.3%), personal care products (23.8%), and vaccinations (22.9%). These results indicate the need for heightened awareness and vigilance in avoiding alpha-gal-containing substances in various healthcare settings.
Currently, the American Medical Association Policy H-100.947, advocates for the labeling of animal-derived ingredients and patient preferences but this is not followed by most drug manufacturers. Findings from this study strongly encourage pharmaceutical companies to obtain independent certification of animal-free products, with an overwhelming 96.8% of respondents supporting this initiative.
This research serves as a call to action for healthcare professionals, pharmacists, and the pharmaceutical industry to recognize the unique struggles faced by patients with AGS. The study emphasizes the need for improved medication labeling, increased awareness, and the development of alpha-gal safe products. By addressing these challenges collectively, we can provide better care, support, and a higher quality of life for individuals living with Alpha-Gal Syndrome.
Dr. Uchi added “While most people may not think much of taking a simple pain medication like Tylenol, patients with alpha-gal syndrome would have to read through every single ingredient, and call the manufacturer with the hope of getting accurate information. We need to do more for this patient population; this is a diversity and inclusion issue.”
For media inquiries, please contact: info@veganmed.org
About DIA's Global Annual Meeting
The DIA's Global Annual Meeting is a renowned event that brings together professionals from the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device industries. This platform fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the exchange of innovative ideas to advance healthcare worldwide. For more information, visit https://www.diaglobal.org/Flagship/DIA-2023.
About VeganMed
VeganMed is committed to creating a world where medications and supplements are free from animal-derived ingredients. It is the resource for patients and healthcare providers to confidently find animal-free products. It is kinder for the body, the animals, and the planet. For more information, visit www.veganmed.org