For Immediate Release:
October 29, 2009
Contact:
Kit Wagar
Office of Public Information
573-751-6062
Families hand down more than facial features and freckles, hair color and height.
Health conditions, such as heart disease and high blood pressure, can also be passed on to future generations.
Knowing the health issues that have affected family members in the past can help a person make medical decisions and lifestyle choices that could result in a longer, healthier life.
November is Missouri Family Health History Month, and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is encouraging families to record their personal health information when they gather during the holiday season.
“A family health history is one of the most valuable things you can give your children and grandchildren,” said Margaret Donnelly, director of the state health department. “A good family health history can steer you toward certain health screenings, healthier lifestyle choices and medical treatment that could save your life.”
Family history is considered one of the most important risk factors for a number of common medical conditions, including heart disease, diabetes and some types of cancer as well as genetic diseases such as hemophilia, cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia.
Health experts recommend documenting diseases and causes of death for at least three generations. The information can help health care providers assess a patient’s risk of disease and recommend preventive measures or treatment.
“Recording the medical conditions that have affected your blood relatives can help your doctor predict your chances for developing certain health problems and can help motivate you to change unhealthy behaviors that contribute to those problems,” Donnelly said. “Sharing health information can encourage family members to make healthier choices now and in the future.”
A family health history should be provided to all health care providers to be retained as a permanent part of a person’s medical file.
A nationwide survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that 96 percent of Americans believe that knowing their family’s medical history is important to their health. However, that same survey found that only one-third of Americans have ever tried to gather and organize their family’s health history.
The state health department has developed a video about recording health histories. “How to Complete a Family Health History” and additional materials to help families record their own health histories can be found at www.dhss.mo.gov/FamilyHistory/. A Spanish version of the family health history materials is available at familyhistory.hhs.gov/fhh-web/home.action?request_locale=es.