GOP Doctors Caucus Hosts AGS Advocates

The GOP Doctors Caucus hosted alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) advocates to discuss the emerging public health crisis of the disease. AGS is a tick bite-associated allergy that can lead to life-threatening reactions to food and medical products derived from mammals.

AGS is estimated to be the 10th most common food allergy in the United States, impacting hundreds of thousands of Americans. With cases surging due to the increase in lone star tick populations across the US, individuals living in rural areas are up to 20 times more likely to develop AGS than those in urban areas.

“Alpha-gal syndrome is a growing public health crisis across all 50 states and lacks awareness by the public, medical professionals, and lawmakers,” said Co-Chairs Greg Murphy, M.D., and John Joyce, M.D. “The expanding reach of the lone star tick population, attributed in part to migratory patterns and population growth of deer populations, is threatening more and more Americans. This disease doesn’t discriminate on who it impacts and can result in life-threatening consequences for those undiagnosed.”

“Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is the 10th most common allergy in the U.S., yet many people don't know about it,” said Congressman Jeff Van Drew, DMD. “Triggered by tick bites, especially from lone star ticks, AGS causes severe allergic reactions to foods like meat, dairy, and gelatin. To help those affected, I’ve introduced the Alpha-gal Allergen Inclusion Act, which would require clear labeling on packaged foods to identify AGS as a major allergen. This would make it easier for people with AGS to avoid unsafe foods and stay safe. It was great to discuss this growing issue at Docs Caucus today and raise awareness for those impacted.”