Dr. P On The Pod

Learning about hATTR Amyloidosis, a Genetic Disease that Disproportionately Impacts Black Communities

August 10, 2023 Pernessa C. Seele
Dr. P On The Pod
Learning about hATTR Amyloidosis, a Genetic Disease that Disproportionately Impacts Black Communities
Show Notes

Hereditary ATTR amyloidosis, or hATTR amyloidosis, is a rare, inherited condition that has an increased prevalence among people of African descent. This week, Dr. P is joined by Alnylam Patient Education Liaison (PEL), Valerie Graham, and Cece, who is living with hATTR amyloidosis, to learn more about the condition. We’ll talk about the importance of discussing health history within families and the role genetic testing can play in helping to determine someone’s risk for developing a disease. 

For more information about hATTR amyloidosis, and to request to speak with an Alnylam PEL who can answer questions you may have about hATTR amyloidosis, please visit www.hATTRbridge.com.


Content sponsored and provided by Alnylam Pharmaceuticals. TTR-USA-00279

Valerie Graham 

Valerie is a Patient Education Liaison (PEL) at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals. In her role, she is responsible for educating individuals and their families about hATTR amyloidosis – a rare, inherited condition. PELs are employees of Alnylam Pharmaceuticals. They do not act as healthcare providers and should not be considered part of your healthcare team.


Cece

Cece’s journey with hATTR amyloidosis began when she started to experience symptoms attributed to carpal tunnel syndrome at 55 years old. As time passed and she began to experience additional, unexplained symptoms, including shortness of breath, peripheral neuropathy and leg swelling, she was determined to find the cause. After years of searching for answers, she was eventually diagnosed with hATTR amyloidosis. Today, Cece is focused on educating the community about this inherited condition and encouraging others to advocate for their health and never give up.