The importance of knowing your family’s health history

Knowing what health issues run in your family can help prevent or treat chronic diseases.

Any health information from your parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles can be helpful.

It’s crucial for everyone to be aware of a history of cardiovascular disease.

It’s also useful to know if certain cancers run in your family, as earlier initial screenings may be recommended due to an increased risk.

In addition, it’s good to establish a good relationship with your primary care doctor and review your family health history during annual physicals.