Family members share more than just matching sweaters; they also share genes, lifestyles, and environments that may influence their health and risk of chronic diseases.
Keeping track of your family’s health history is easier than ever thanks to at-home DNA test kits. These kits have become popular in the last few years, especially as a gift around the holidays. At-home DNA kits are generally noninvasive and efficient. You receive your results quickly and can even access them online. These kits can:
While DNA test kits offer many helpful health benefits, it is important to note that results from at-home tests are not as strictly regulated as those performed in medical offices. Additionally, not all at-home DNA kits give the same information and level of detail, so your findings might vary from what is listed here. Therefore, you should always consult your primary care physician to discuss your results in more detail.
If you prefer the old-fashioned way, the Center for Disease Control recommends compiling a comprehensive family health history to discuss with primary care physicians or pediatricians. If you aren’t sure how to go about recording your family’s health history, use the following tips to get started:
Have any of your family members had or have chronic diseases or conditions such as cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease? This may increase your risk of developing those conditions. It is also important to keep in mind that a complete family history includes all family members, even those who are not biologically related. In addition to someone’s genealogy, his or her environment, behavior, and lifestyle can influence the risk for conditions and diseases. And, regardless of the relationship, family members often share social and environmental exposures that may influence health risks.
Talking to your family about their health history, followed by a discussion with your primary care physician, is an important step in understanding your own health and preventing future diseases. This year, help your family stay happy and healthy by leading the conversation around your shared health history.
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