Patient family history

Patient Family History Most patients do what they can to lower their risk of illness. When collecting information from patients, they will provide endless information on themselves, their habits, and diets, yet many know little about their family history.

Impact of Family History The strongest detector of future health problems for patients is family history. Most patients have no idea, so it's worth noting that when taking medical intake information, you can educate them on the importance of family history. Genetics plays a very big role in health; however, it's not the only determining factor. Lifestyle and the environment also have an impact on one's family medical history.

A family environment that is healthy Healthy and consistent meals, with a balance of protein, vegetables, fruits and dairy. Regular home cooked meals rather than an abundance of fast food. Minimal amounts of fried foods and empty calories, with healthy choices such as olive oils instead of lard.

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A nonsmoking house is much healthier than a home that has even an occasional smoker. The effects of second hand smoke are known to be harmful, and to have lasting effects. Children that live with a smoker are three times more likely to have asthma and bronchial illnesses.

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Activity within a family environment serves as a great role model for children. Families that participate in sports and outdoor activities are likely to have lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and overall stress levels

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Unhealthy Family Environment Fast food, or consistently eating out -

Living with one or more person that smokes

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No or very little exercise and outdoor activity

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Unhealthy eating, fried foods, little or no vegetables

Family genetics impact diseases such as asthma, diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Many patients when questioned about family history, have little

information and do not understand the importance of the family medical history. It is especially important to know if family members had illnesses early in life, that raises the risk factor for the patient and the doctor should be made aware. If a disease, occurs in several family members, the risk for the patient increases, and if the disease targets the patient's gender it makes them more of a target as well. Breast cancer, ovarian cancer, heart disease and diabetes are much more likely to affect a female that has a family history of these conditions. Several well-known actresses have been in the news over recent years because of their decision to have mastectomies. They did not have breast cancer, nor had they ever had breast cancer, however, they had a strong family history of it, and in some cases carried the gene that makes their risk even higher.

There is some evidence that suggests substance abuse is hereditary in some cases, although this is not proven. Most experts agree that lifestyle has more of an impact of substance abuse than hereditary factors. Many children of alcoholics or drug abusers avoid substances with a tendency to be addictive, proving that they can provide better and healthier lives for themselves as adults.

Related: How to Stay Awake to Study for Nursing Exams Mental illness can be hereditary, if detected early on, it can often be controlled prior to ever becoming a problem. Therapy combined with medication can often combat any problems before they begin, so it's wise to encourage patients to discuss mental illness within their family members.

Don't overlook allergies; many people have inherited allergy conditions.

Severe allergies that involve anaphylaxis should be discussed if immediate family members suffer from them. Bee stings, medications, nuts, shellfish, and latex are among common allergies that can be serious and are often hereditary.

When taking information from a new patient, explain to the patient the importance of family history prior to obtaining the information itself. If they understand the importance of family medical history, they are more likely to provide important detailed information.

Family history is a very important part of the medical screening process, and should be explained to the patient so that they provide needed and valuable information.

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