At some time or another, you’ve probably filled out an intake form at the doctor’s office that asked whether you had a family history of certain diseases. That raises a good point: If you have a family history of heart disease, does that mean you’ll get it too?
You might think there’d be a simple answer to that question, but there really isn’t. While a family history of heart disease can make it more likely that you’ll develop a heart health issue, it isn’t a certainty.
Many people with family members who have some form of heart disease never develop a heart health issue of their own. So, what’s the difference between those who do and those who don’t—and what’s the role of family history? Read on as we explore the topic.
Why Family History Matters
If you’ve ever read through a list of risk factors for any medical condition, odds are that family history was on the list. Having a family history of a disease is known to increase your risk of many health issues, particularly when an immediate family member is affected.
In some cases, health conditions have genetic factors, meaning that the likelihood of developing a condition can pass down through genes.
In other cases, a family history of certain medical issues is more closely related to environmental or behavioral factors. When you live with or around others, you’re exposed to the same environment (with factors such as pollution or exposure to chemicals) and you may also have similar lifestyle habits.
Knowing your family’s medical history and keeping a record of it can help you stay on top of your health. When you share with your medical provider that you have a family history of something like heart disease or a history of cardiomyopathy, he or she can guide you to make thoughtful decisions about how to protect your own health.
Family History & Heart Disease
What about a family history of heart disease? Your family’s medical history can increase your risk of various heart conditions in several ways. Additionally, having other health conditions can further raise your risk of heart problems, including:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
Other risk factors influenced by family habits and environment include:
- Smoking
- Drinking excessive alcohol
- Eating a diet high in saturated fat and sodium
- Living a sedentary lifestyle
When you grow up in a household where these risk factors are common, you’re more likely to adopt those habits and carry them into adulthood, increasing your risk of heart disease.
Assessing Risk Factors
So, what can you do to counteract a family history of heart disease and heart disease risk factors? First, talk with your doctor about your family medical history. He or she can advise about specific steps to help lower your risk and tests that may be recommended.
Second, do your part to decrease your risk by practicing healthy lifestyle habits. Move your body for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week. Eat a diet filled with fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Minimize the amount of sodium and unhealthy fats in the foods you eat. Don’t smoke or quit smoking if you do smoke. Keep an eye on your alcohol intake.
Choose Georgia Heart Institute for Heart Disease Prevention
As the leading heart and vascular program that’s focused on heart health for generations, Georgia Heart Institute has created an innovative center focused solely on patient education, healthy lifestyle behaviors, advanced screening services and support resources – spanning all types and levels of heart disease.
The Prevention Center brings together expertise from non-invasive cardiology, culinary medicine, wellness coaching, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and more to deliver a holistic and comprehensive experience. Choose Georgia Heart Institute for expert heart care at every stage of your health journey. From prevention to advanced treatments, we’re dedicated to supporting you along the way.