By Dr. Noëlle Gabriel, PDC Pediatrics
One of the best ways to help protect your child’s health is to make sure you know your family’s health history. While you can’t change the genes your child was born with, you may be able to lower the risks that come with certain inherited health conditions. Knowing your family’s health history can help doctors spot warning signs early on and make better decisions about your child’s care. This may include performing certain health tests earlier than usual, recommending healthy habits, or checking in more often with your child.
Understanding Hereditary Conditions
Many people have certain diseases that run in the family. These diseases can include heart disease, diabetes, certain types of cancer, asthma and allergies, anxiety, depression, and genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis or sickle cell disease.
While you can’t change the genes that your child inherits, you can lower their risk for certain diseases by teaching them healthy habits.
How to Collect Your Family’s Health History
The easiest way to collect your family’s health history is to ask your relatives about their health. Make sure to ask them about any serious illnesses they’ve had and at what age they were diagnosed. If anyone in your family has passed away from a specific disease, make a note of how old they were when they died. You should also write down any health problems that seem common in your family. Be sure to include conditions from both sides of the family.
Keep Your Child’s Pediatrician Informed
Bring your family’s health history to your child’s next check-up. A CHKD pediatrician can use it to look for patterns or assess health risks. They might recommend:
• Extra screenings or tests.
• Visits to a specialist (like a heart or genetic doctor).
• Healthy diet plans or exercises.
• Support for mental and emotional well-being.
When health conditions are found early, they’re often easier to treat.
Healthy Habits Make a Difference
Even if a condition runs in your family, your child’s lifestyle can improve their overall health and well-being. Teach them healthy habits from a young age:
• Eat a balanced diet with fruits, veggies, and whole grains.
• Stay active—play, walk, ride bikes, get outside.
• Get enough quality sleep.
• Limit screen time and electronics usage.
• Encourage your child to talk openly about their feelings with you.
What Is Genetic Counseling?
Genetic counseling is helpful for families with rare conditions or repeated health concerns. If your child is at higher risk, ask your pediatrician if you should see a genetic counselor. Genetic counseling at CHKD is available for patients and their families by referral. Our genetic counselors are licensed, certified healthcare providers who provide a comprehensive approach to genetic testing, patient counseling, and clinical management recommendations.
