DHSS encourages families to record health info

The Department of Health and Senior Services is encouraging all families to record their personal health information during Missouri Family History Month in November.

A family health history is one of the most valuable things you can give your children and grandchildren," Director of the State Health Department, Margaret Donnelly said. "A good family health history can steer you toward certain health screenings, healthier lifestyle choices and medical treatment that could save your life."

The department noted that health conditions, such as heart disease and high blood pressure, can be passed on to future generations.

Knowing the health issues that have affected family members in the past can help individuals make medical decisions and lifestyle choices that could result in a longer, healthier life, according to the department.

Officials added that 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, according to the department. Officials noted that the information can help health care providers access a patient's risk of disease and recommend preventive measure 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."

The department noted that 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, according to officials. However, that same survey found that only one-third of Americans have ever tried to gather and organize their family's health history, the department noted.

The state health department has developed a video about recording health histories. "How to Complete a Family Health History," and addition materials to help families record their own health histories can be found online at www.dhss.mo.gov/familyhistory/.