How do I write down my family health history for my doctor?
Record what you know, mark gaps and keep family details private.
Family health history is a list of health problems in your family. It can help your care team plan questions or checks.
Note who had a problem and the age when it began, if known. For a family member who died, add the age and cause if you know them.
Ask what people wish to share. Write "not known" for a gap. A condition in your family does not mean you will have it too.
- Make a list on paper or in a private file.
- Include both sides of your family where known.
- Keep the names of health problems and the ages you can check.
- Mark guesses or missing facts clearly.
- Share the list with your care team. Add to it when you learn more.
Make a blank family health history table. Use columns for family link, health problem, age when it began and notes or gaps. Leave every row empty. I will add details in my own file.
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A list with gaps can still help. You do not need to send family records to AI to make the table.
Sources and more help
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