Executive Health Program

Health Tips

TRACKING YOUR FAMILY'S HEALTH
Mayo Clinic Provides 10 Tips for Determining Your Genetic Predisposition to Disease

By Robert R. Orford, M.D., C.M.
Director, Executive Health at Arizona

There's no crystal ball for predicting which diseases you may develop down the road. But, your family history can give you a good idea of your risk for developing conditions such as cancer, diabetes or Alzheimer's. Here are a few tips for finding answers and stacking the odds in your favor:

• Know your family's history. If you're interested in your genealogy, research your family tree a step further by including health history, such as dates and causes of death and ages at diagnosis.
• Get the facts straight. At the very least, try to obtain information about your parents, grandparents and siblings.
• When it comes to cancer, be a stickler for details. Be on the alert when someone develops cancer at a younger-than-typical age; with multiple cancers in a family; and when one person has battled multiple cancers.
• Have as much information at hand, as possible. It may sound morbid, but death certificates and pathology reports can come in handy, especially if you or someone in your family chooses to pursue genetic counseling.
• Use family gatherings as opportunities for gathering information. Reunions and holidays are great times to record some of the details, as well as to pass along information.
• Share information with your physician. It's important that those helping you make decisions about your health care be aware of your family history.
• Consider consulting a genetic counselor. If you have particular concerns, a genetic counselor can review your family history, determine your actual risk and discuss options for genetic testing. Try the National Society of Genetic Counselors, www.nsgc.org to find one.
• Do additional research about genetic conditions and ways to prevent disease. Some Web sites to access are www.geneticalliance.org, www.medlineplus.gov, or www.MayoClinic.com.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle. It can't be said enough -- pregnant women should not smoke, eat healthy foods, and keep alcohol in moderation.
• If you're of childbearing age, take folic acid. To prevent spina bifida and other conditions, take 0.4 mg. of folic acid a day if you are pregnant.

The focus in genetics is on knowledge and prevention. Educate yourself and be aware of your risk factors.Try not to dwell on things you can't change, but take steps to change those things that you can control.