Having a Family Reunion? Create a Family Health History!

"Doesn't Jack’s new baby look just like Cousin Ben?" "Emily, you laugh just like Aunt Rebecca." "And Ryan, I see you inherited your dad's freckles!"

Family reunions are the time when we catch up with loved ones, meet new spouses and babies, and spend time together. If your family is like most, an unofficial family historian will take this opportunity to inscribe the latest branches on the family tree, and record the recent happenings of the clan.

Family reunions also provide a perfect opportunity to create a document to help keep our loved ones healthier: a family health history.

Certain diseases and conditions can run in families. These include heart disease, stroke, depression, diabetes and certain cancers. If one or more relatives has these conditions, this may put other kin at higher statistical risk. Genes and environment both may come into play: families share not only DNA, but also habits. Even family members added by marriage or adoption are impacted by family lifestyle choices.

At your next family reunion, take the time to talk about health. Compile and share a written health history document. Ask senior family members about their own parents and grandparents' health. We can't change our genes, but knowing which health conditions seem to run in our family can motivate us to reduce our personal risk. A family health history also helps our doctor diagnose and treat diseases—and catch them earlier.

Creating a family health history is a gift your family can give themselves, and is a valuable legacy for future generations.