Medical Family Tree:
Kids Corner

Aired on Superstation WGN
Saturday, April 30, 2005
Show 212

Benjamin Spock, the famous baby doctor once said, "There are two things your child will share willingly, a contagious disease and their mother's age." It's a funny line, but there is one other thing you share with your child, your genetic makeup. Research shows that due to their genetic background, 40 percent of the population is at increased risk for common diseases like cancer, diabetes or heart disease. Luke here already has every genetic nuisance. Every gene that makes him who he is. And even though he looks absolutely perfect, any unforeseen genetic flaw he may have, could come back to haunt him as an adult. Many health conditions are passed along family lines. So here's a great idea--create a medical family tree. Creating a medical family tree is easy. Start with what you know. What health concerns did your grandmother or grandfather have or even your parents? Then it's time to do some research and talk to family members. Gather as much information across as many generations as possible. Some of the things to include are, birth and death dates, along with the cause of death. Any major illnesses, allergies or chronic health conditions like asthma or high blood pressure. A blank medical tree is available free of charge from the Department of Health and Human Services. By showing a physician your medical family tree, he or she can help detect certain disease patterns. And discuss the health risks with your family to determine if any, what tests or screens need to be done.