Do you know if diabetes, heart disease, or cancer run in your family? Unfortunately, many people only find out once they’re facing a serious diagnosis. Because certain conditions are hereditary, meaning they can be passed down through generations, understanding your risk is essential. 

So, how can you start gathering this vital information? Let’s break it down.

How to Gather Your Family Health History

No matter how big or small, everyone can gain insights from their family’s collective history. Here’s how to identify the right information:

1. List close family — This includes parents, siblings, and children. Whenever possible, gather details from extended family such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
2. Add the basics — Record everyone’s name, relation, ethnicity, and birthdate/place. If a family member is deceased, include the age and cause of death.
3. Note health conditions — Be sure to capture notable issues like Alzheimer’s, asthma, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, mental health disorders, stroke, substance abuse, and obesity. If this information is available, also note birth defects, vision/hearing loss, surgeries, immunizations, medications, and pregnancy history (miscarriages, complications).

How to Find Answers

Your family health history doesn’t have to be gathered all at once. Rather, commit to consistently building a record over time. You can do this by:

• Talking with family at gatherings or one-on-one
• Looking through documentation (family trees, medical records, photos)
• Sending a digital survey to gather information easily
• Starting with parents and older relatives
• Asking about symptoms and behaviors, not just diagnoses

Remember to be respectful, as some relatives may not want to share their health information.

Why Is It Important?

Put simply, a thorough family health history gives you the power to make smart choices for yourself and future generations. Here’s why:

• Saving lives through early detection— Knowing your family history helps doctors recommend screenings to catch diseases early when they are easier to treat.
• Analyzing risks — Some health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer run in families. Identifying patterns can help you take preventive steps earlier in life.
• Making healthier choices— You can’t change your genes, but you can change your lifestyle. Eating better, exercising, and avoiding smoking can lower your risk of serious diseases.
• Personalizing health care – Doctors can tailor recommendations based on your unique medical history, lifestyle, and needs.

Building a Healthy Future with AltaMed

For over 55 years, AltaMed has helped Southern California families grow healthy. From infants to seniors, our comprehensive care model ensures patients receive the right services at the right time. Best of all, everything you need is under one roof, and always close to home. Get started online or by calling (888) 499-9303.