Did you know that you can use genealogy to keep yourself and your family healthy? Medical research shows that certain genetic disorders, as well as the tendencies to develop certain preventable health conditions, are hereditary. A family medical history is a useful tool that you and other members of your family can use to assist your physicians in caring for your health.
Unfortunately, some families are at an increased risk for developing chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and certain cancers. If you discover any of these conditions as you research your family’s medical history, let your doctor know. Your doctor can help you to reduce your risk of developing these conditions by suggesting preventative measures.
Family medical history information is also useful for family planning purposes. If you are trying to conceive or are already pregnant, your health care provider can use family medical history information to determine whether you and/or your unborn child should be tested for certain medical conditions.
The chart for a family medical history is similar to a traditional pedigree chart. The American Medical Association has published a pamphlet about using family medical history to prevent and treat disease. The pamphlet is available online and includes a chart, as well as instructions for researching your family’s medical history.
If you are considering researching your family’s medical history, it is useful to know what kind of information you will be gathering. The American Medical Association recommends that you include three generations (besides yourself) in your family medical history. For each family member, get as much of the following information as you can:
*Current age, or age at death if deceased
*Ethnicity
*What medical conditions they had, and at what age they were diagnosed with them
Also, as you go about assembling your family medical history, remember that the information that you find does not mean that you will certainly develop the same health conditions as your ancestors. Family health history is a tool that helps doctors and patients work together to implement preventative strategies when an increased risk is identified. Be sure to discuss your concerns with your doctor, and know that the information that you have gathered could help you or your children by identifying medical risks and getting preventative care before illnesses have a chance to develop.